Around 550 London children took part in a spectacular fancydress party in the City"s glitzy Mansion House on Saturday (7January) " hosted by the modern day Dick Whittington Lord MayorDavid Wootton.

The children were able to enjoy the splendid surroundings of the18th-century State Rooms and palatial Egyptian Hall, where the Cityof London Lord Mayor normally welcomes politicians, statesmen andfinanciers. Adult representatives from boroughs around London tookpart too.

The usual formality of the Mansion House was replaced with theexcited noises of children, clowns, party games and a live band.

The Lord Mayor even led a Conga line featuring all children andother guests. They all had afternoon tea at the Old Ballroom.

Bradford-born Lord Mayor David Wootton said:"As a child, one of my ambitions " among many - was to become aLord Mayor and I am now living that dream. I hope the children wentaway from the party having had some great fun but also knowing thatanything is possible. My year as Lord Mayor is full of seriousbusiness promoting London"s key financial, professional andbusiness services industries but this was a hugely entertainingafternoon with potential future Lord Mayors of the City ofLondon."