LIKE Santa's little helpers, nursery children delivered gifts that will be opened across Europe on Friday.

The children of Hermitage Nursery School, in Belmont Road, Uxbridge, had been busy collecting toys and gifts for their shoe box appeal.

All 121 boxes were collected and delivered to Christ Church, in Redford Way, Uxbridge. They will be sent to disadvantaged children in eastern European countries in time for Christmas.

EASTCOTE: A 12-hour Christmas fair is being held on December 5. From noon until midnight, Eastcote High Street will be a throng of choirs, school groups and other activities.

HAREFIELD: A menu of turkey and stuffing will make an early Christmas Day lunch at a festive fair. Turkey curry is also on the menu, along with mince pies and mulled wine in St Mary's church hall, in High Street, on Saturday from 11am until 2pm.

ICKENHAM: A Christmas bazaar being held to raise money for a cancer centre can expect a visit from Father Christmas. He will drop in to Ickenham Guide Hut, in Community Close, on Sunday. There will also be plenty of gifts and crafts and home and beauty accessories on sale. Entry is £1 per adult and the bazaar is open from 2pm until 5pm, with proceeds going to the Community Cancer Centre, in Fairfield Road, Yiewsley.

NORTHWOOD HILLS: The official turning on of the Christmas lights in Joel Street will take place on Tuesday. A band from Haydon School will perform at about 3.45pm before the lights are switched on at 4pm. Drinks will be provided for all.

RICKMANSWORTH: The popular annual Victorian evening returns on Friday, bringing Dickensian charm to the town. Retailers will dress in period costume to start the festive trading period. The Christmas lights will be switched on at 7.30pm but the evening lasts from 5pm until 9pm. Preparatory Girls School, in The Drive, will be hosting its annual Christmas Fayre on December 6 from noon until 3pm. Everyone is welcome to come and join in the festivities, take the children to see Santa, buy festive treats from stallholders and take part in a grand raffle. There will be plenty to keep everyone in the family entertained, with fairground rides, Morris dancing and a Punch and Judy show. Hot roasted chestnuts and mulled wine will also be available.