Children won't be bored in Hertsmere with the play rangers

You are invited to meet Hertsmere's new play rangers at events for all the family this August.

It's free, it's fun and coming soon to a park or open space near you - just turn up, meet us and bring your ideas!

There are also free events throughout August for young people in Borehamwood, Shenley, Elstree and Radlett to get involved with.

Following a successful bid to the Big Lottery Fund earlier this year, Hertsmere has employed 12 qualified play rangers to promote play and recreational activities in the borough's parks and open spaces.

The play rangers will work with children in their leisure time including during school holidays and early evenings and will work to encourage children and young people to make more use of the green space within their communities. This will include sports, games, natural play, den building, arts and crafts and anything else suitable that children want to do. The aim is to provide them with fun challenges outside in all weathers.

The presence of play rangers will provide children and young people with safe places to play and hang out and they will also provide support to those who need it. The play rangers are there to promote play opportunities and help other people understand that children have the right to use parks. They will also help make sure the park is well looked after and safe for children.

Councillor Brenda Batten, Portfolio Holder for Culture, said: "We are very excited that the play ranger project has come to fruition.

"The play rangers will give children and young people more opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and support them in exploring new and different ways to have fun outside."

Sara Younger, Cultural Services Officer, said: "The play rangers will support play activities, not dictate how children and young people should enjoy themselves. The sessions will be open and children will be free to come and go as they please; there is no charge or registration required."

The play rangers have received training and have been police checked.

Please note that under 8s must be accompanied by an adult at the launch event. Children should dress appropriately for outdoor play.

For more information call 020 8207 7801 or see our website at www.hertsmere.gov.uk/play