Published on 25th July 2012

Little girl in green trousers and pale top. Arms held out she's mid bounce on a bouncy castle

Battle sports, a climbing wall and face painting are just some of the fun activities on offer to children and their families at National Playday this year.

  • Where: Pittville Park
  • When: 11am to 4pm, Wednesday 1 August

Wednesday 1 August will see children from up and down the country take part in local events to mark the annual celebration of children’s right to play and the importance of play in children's lives.

Cheltenham’s event, which has been organised by the council’s play development team, also offers inflatables including a toddler area; arts and crafts and giant garden games. There will also be performances from local acts through the day along with an Olympic themed sports area and much more.

Craig Mortiboys, healthy communities partnerships manager, says: “National Playday is a highlight of the year, and is always a really well attended event that brings together families from across the borough. This is a great opportunity for people to get outdoors and enjoy family activities. We have planned for everything except the weather!”

Cllr Rowena Hay, cabinet member for sport and culture, continued: “As well as promoting children's right to play, the campaign this year is highlighting that outdoor play is crucial for children's health, well-being and happiness. We’d like to encourage lots of people to come along and benefit from a day of play.”

It costs £2 per child and children under 4s are free.

National Playday is just one of the events being delivered by the play development team over the summer holidays. The Playzone holiday scheme – running until 31 August – offers a huge variety of supervised activities, including day trips, for children aged seven to 12. Full and half day sessions can be pre-booked at Balcarras Sport Centre (8.30am till 5.30/6pm) and at Rowanfield Infant School (10am to 3.30pm) there are full and half day sessions available on a first come, first served basis. The play rangers are also touring local parks throughout the summer, offering free sports and play activities for young people.

For more information please visit the website or contact 01242 774408.

For press enquiries contact: Kelly Carter, communications officer, telephone 01242 264154, email kelly.carter@cheltenham.gov.uk

Notes:
A photographer is welcome to the event

For more information about National Play Day, visit: www.playday.org.uk