A NEW Year party was an occasion not to be missed by hundreds of children.

For many, it was one event to look forward to after the festive celebrations.

January often seemed the most dismal month of the year, with dark nights and bitter winter weather.

Children were back at their school desks, the excitement of Christmas a distant memory.

But then it was party time.

Many firms would organise weekend parties for the children of their employees.

Oxford University Press was no exception.

Every year, children whose parents or relatives worked for the organisation would be invited to join in two hours of fun.

The picture was taken in 1970 when 200 youngsters enjoyed a packed programme.

They were entertained to the traditional tea, followed by films and a pantomime.

There was also, of course, a belated visit from Father Christmas, who handed out presents to every child.

The party was held at the Clarendon Press Institute, in Walton Street, just a few yards from the OUP’s main building.

We’re not sure what the children in the picture above – many in their party hats – were watching at the time.

But judging by their faces, it was something that made them laugh.

The Oxford Mail summed up the occasion by describing it as Operation Jelly – no doubt a reference to the fact that jelly was always a favourite at such parties.

The next picture shows some of the 60 children of policemen and special constables who enjoyed tea, games and entertainment at the St John Ambulance hall at Abingdon in 1970.

The same year, there was plenty of excitement for the children of British Road Services staff in the picture taken at their party at Rose Hill Community Centre, in Oxford The last picture was taken at a party held for the children of staff at Smith’s Industries, in Witney, in 1966.

An unnamed boy is seen making a right hash of eating his trifle.

Do you recognise yourself or anyone else in the photographs? Let me know.