George Osborne hosts children's Christmas party

Chancellor George Osborne meets Geri Halliwell. Credit: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

The state rooms at Number 11 Downing Street were transformed with a Santa's grotto for the annual Christmas party.

With the help of some famous faces including Rupert Grint of Harry Potter fame, footballer Frank Lampard, presenter Christine Bleakley and former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, Chancellor George Osborne helped spread some Christmas cheer to a group of seriously and terminally ill children from the Starlight charity.

Chancellor George Osborne meets children at his annual Christmas party at No11 Downing Street. Credit: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

The 40 children and their families were invited to number Number 11 for afternoon tea.Mr Osborne, acted as host for the fourth year in a row, while a reindeer plus children's comic double act Dick & Dom were also part of the festivities.

Chancellor George Osborne meets footballer Frank Lampard and Christine Bleakley. Credit: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire
A reindeer leaves Downing Street after the party. Credit: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

The Starlight charity grants wishes for seriously and terminally ill children and provides entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK.

Chancellor George Osborne meets actor Rupert Grint share some Christmas cookies with 9-year-old Callum Wilson. Credit: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire