Families enjoyed a fantastic day of free activities at Victoria Park, Keighley, as the Keighley Town Council-funded Play in the Park programme visited the town during the summer holidays. The events are delivered by the Bradford Community Play & Development Service, managed and organised by Lee Clapham and his team, on behalf of local councils.
The event provided families with a wide range of free activities, including inflatables, sports and play equipment, all accompanied by music from the resident DJ. Highfield Community Association also attended with a number of community stalls, including free craft activities and archery, alongside fairground rides available at a small cost.
During the visit, I met with Andrea Walker, Mayor of Keighley, who highlighted the importance of the programme and Keighley Town Council’s commitment to supporting opportunities for local families.
She said:
“Keighley Town Council supports local initiatives such as Play in the Park, which is a brilliant free event for local families. It encourages families to get out and about. It is good for mental health and encourages children to play outside like I used to do when I was a young child.”
When asked what she would say to families who have not yet attended a session, she added:
“Try it! This is a fantastic session that encourages local families into our parks and green spaces. Come down to a day of Play in the Park which will leave you mentally charged and physically charged as well. It’s absolutely fantastic to see members of the public coming out from different areas of Keighley.”
The Play in the Park programme includes 48 Play in the Park events and six Mini Bounce Planet events across the summer, all delivered by the Bradford Community Play & Development Service on behalf of local town, parish and village councils. Keighley Town Council is one of the councils funding the programme to ensure local families have access to free outdoor activities throughout the school holidays.
A huge thank you goes to Keighley Town Council, Lee Clapham and the Bradford Community Play & Development Service team, alongside Highfield Community Association and all partners involved in delivering these events for local communities.
For updates on upcoming sessions, follow the Bradford Community Play & Development Service Facebook page.