Families with seriously ill children joined Camp Simcha in Daventry, Northamptonshire, for a long weekend away from the day-to-day stresses.

Nearly 200 family members from London and Manchester enjoyed activities ranging from go-karting and laser tag to hairdressing and crafts, as well as relaxation time and pampering activities.

Participants included Esther Fletcher of Edgware, whose seven-year-old daughter Elisheva has a rare condition requiring a tracheotomy and ventilator.

“We have been supported by Camp Simcha since Elisheva was six months old and my children literally start looking forward to the next retreat almost as soon as the last one finishes,” she said.

“Not only do they get to enjoy wonderful treats and activities. More importantly, they know most of the volunteers and many of the families so they feel 100 per cent comfortable. So for us this means we actually get to relax. Not only is Elisheva being cared for — all the other children are happily running around having fun.

“I also find it really helps to talk to other parents who are coping with situations which are similar — and sometimes tougher — than our own.”