Wincanton 'Play Day' Well Attended

Over 200 people flocked to Rickhayes Recreation Ground in Wincanton to enjoy the first free play day of the season.

The event - run by South Somerset District Council's Big Lottery-funded Community Play Officer Stuart Talbott - saw children testing out their circus skills and tackling a 25ft climbing wall.

It was the first of 16 free play days that will be held in communities across South Somerset this summer which will bring play, sport and youth activities to each location.

Families also took part in willow weaving, arts and crafts and a fire pit for outdoor cooking run by local Girl Guides.

Stuart Talbott, who recently took over the role of Big Lottery-funded Community Play Officer for South Somerset District Council, said, "I have to say that I am excited about organising a further 15 play days this year. I get a lot of support from the local sports centres, parish councils and community groups and this allows me to plan a different programme for each of the events.

"The idea is to bring free, varied play opportunities out into each community. Families in Wincanton commented that there was something for everyone at the first event, so long may that continue."

Young people were also asked for their views on the type of equipment they would like to see in the play area at Rickhayes. The play area is due to receive an extensive refurbishment next year following a £50,000 award from the Play Builder programme.

Cllr Sylvia Seal, who holds the Leisure and Culture Portfolio for the district council added, "With the Big Lottery funding we have been able to organise a series of free events for local young people and judging by the 7000 families who attended last year's play days, they are a popular part of our work."

The full timetable of South Somerset District Council's free lottery-funded Play and Youth events can be found at www.southsomerset.gov.uk/playdays.

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