Christmas came early for thousands of schoolchildren across Carmarthenshire as they tucked in to a traditional roast with all the trimmings.

Around 400kg of brussel sprouts later, Carmarthenshire’s award-winning Catering Service did a cracking job of creating a special festive atmosphere in school dining halls in the run up to the big day.

As well as spreading some Christmas spirit, the meals also helped the children towards their five-a-day, with plenty of carrots, broccoli and sprouts dished up, followed by ice cream logs, which - if laid end to end – would stretch from one side of Parc Y Scarlets to the other, three times over.

Catering services manager Sandra Weigel said:”Our cooks work very hard to provide a first class service for pupils and staff alike.

"I am delighted to see that Christmas dinners were enjoyed in schools again this year.

“We have received many complements to cascade to the catering staff on doing such an excellent job.”

Each school meal accounts for one-third of a child’s daily nutritional intake and within a school setting children benefit from the healthiest lunches possible, receiving a well-balanced, tasty dish which can prolong their energy for their afternoon lessons.