THANKS to locally-based charity Chiks, which has just celebrated its 20th birthday, children in dire poverty have been rescued from streets and railway stations in India for the past two decades.

To celebrate, what has been a “spectacular” 20 years, the Chiks’ team put on a party to remember at one of Churt’s most favourite venues, Frensham Pond Hotel.

Pupils from Rowledge Primary School joined members of Chiks, which stands for Children’s Homes in Kerala State, in celebrations as they impressed listeners with their harmonic voices.

Also in attendance was Rowledge’s headteacher Sarah Oliver, deputy head Lindsey Chivers and music teacher Jeanne Hodkins, who conducted the singing.

Following the children’s choir guests enjoyed a lively performance by folk singers, Carolyn Robson and Moria Craig.

Dennis Pratt, trustee and treasurer of Chiks, said: “They really entertained us during the tea. They were very good, they performed the songs in different accents as well.

“It was really very good – a jolly good occasion, attended by around 80 Chiks supporters, children and their teachers. It was a great location with a very good tea.

“A presentation was also made to Robin Radley, [founder and] chairman of Chiks, in recognition of all of his commitment and effort over the past 20 years.”

Chiks began in the mid-1990s and supports more than 200 children. According to the charity for the boys and girls brought to them, or who “appear at the gates after years of cruelty and neglect, life had been one of indescribable poverty. No proper home, inadequate meals, little or no health care. Seldom any education”.

For more information or to get involved go to www.chikschildrenshomes.org.uk.