Free event attracts the crowds

A free play day attracted more than 600 people.

A fantastic day out for everyone!

Activities on offer included ball skills, parachute games, badge making and arts and crafts. All the activities were popular but face painting was a particular favourite for children.

Hertsmere's new play strategy was also promoted at the event, held in Oakmere Park, Potters Bar on August 1. It sets out how the council plans to improve play opportunities across the borough over the next five years and will form part of a bid to the National Lottery for funding to make those improvements.

Sara Younger, Cultural Services Officer, said: " There are two main projects in Hertsmere's play strategy. With funding from the lottery, we hope to provide play rangers in parks across the borough on selected days to help facilitate children's play. The second project is aimed at older children and includes initiatives such as youth shelters. Children and young people as well as local residents will be fully consulted on these projects."

Councillor Brenda Batten, Culture and Healthcare Portfolio Holder, went along on the day. She said: "It was absolutely superb. It was lovely to see so many people and it was great that the sun came out for us. The children had a variety of activities to choose from and they all looked like they were really enjoying themselves. Well done to all the staff involved, they worked really hard."