Published on 12th July 2016

Pittville Park play area preview day

Music, circus skills, face-painting and magic are just some of the things lined up for a fun-packed afternoon at Pittville Park on Sunday 17 July from 12noon onwards.

The event is being held to celebrate the official opening of Cheltenham’s newest and biggest play area.

The much-loved and ever-popular Music Man will entertain children with interactive singing and storytelling. Niggles Magic will capture children’s imagination and impress parents with tricks, Circus Thirty-Six will offer children the chance to have a go and practise a variety of circus skills, and traditional fun from a Punch and Judy show will come from Professor Collywobbles. Local company, The Baby Train will also be there, promising babies and toddlers a magical musical adventure.

The Cheltenham Trust’s play rangers will offer arts and crafts, plus face painting.

The entertainment will take place from 12 noon, on the lawn in front of the Pump Room and in the play area.

The fully refurbished aviaries will also re-open on Sunday, with an improved environment for the birds and bunnies to enjoy. Educational and interactive signs about the animals have been made using designs from Bettridge school and St Mark’s Church of England school.

The Mobiloo – a specially designed toilet and changing facility for disabled people - will also be on site for the whole day next to the main toilet block.

Councillor Chris Coleman, cabinet member for clean and green environment said: “We are really excited to be holding this event which will celebrate the hugely successful opening of this fantastic play area. There is lots planned for all ages, so families can pack a picnic and really make an afternoon of it.”

Mayor, Chris Ryder will be officially cutting a ribbon in front of special guests just before the entertainment begins, at 11.45am by the new refreshment kiosk.

Chris added: “I’m so pleased for everyone that’s been involved in this project and I think it’s fantastic. It will also be great to see the birds and bunnies back in their lovely new home. It will be an honour and a privilege to officially open the new play area in one of Cheltenham’s best loved parks.”

Photo call: The Mayor will officially declare the play area open at 11.45am, 17 July, by the Kiosk at Pittville Park play area

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