Hundreds of local children and young people are expected to take part in some free fun activities in celebration of National Playday on Wednesday, 4 August 2010.

The majority of this year’s events will take place in the city centre pedestrianised area, in front of the Old Town between 10am and 4pm, with additional activities also planned in Tullie House and The Guildhall.

Two star players from Carlisle United FC - Gary Madine and Tony Kane will be making an appearance at the city centre event at 2pm.

This year’s National Playday is themed on ‘Our place. Our place!’ and calls for everyone to make time for play.

Organised by the Carlisle Play Partnership, with support from Carlisle City Council, the event has a packed programme that aims to encourage children, young people and families to have a go at a range of activities:

• City centre – 10am - 4pm - Sports and games, including tennis activities (Carlisle City Council’s Sport & Recreation team); natural messy play and fun activities for under fives (Barnado’s Children’s Centres); arts, crafts and games (Carlisle City Council face2face children and young people’s team); street dance workshops; story telling; Bongo Ben and his musical sculptures; skate ramps and training; and general information (Children & Families Information Service, Capita Road Safety, Cumbria Police and Armed Forces). Some Carlisle United players will also be making an appearance!
• Tullie House – 1pm - 4pm - traditional toys and games in the gardens.
• The Guildhall – 1pm - 4pm - create a traditional toy.

Cllr Olwyn Luckley, Portfolio holder for Community Engagement, said:

“This year’s Playday is set to be a great family event.  Lots of local organisations and groups have signed up and will be providing free activities or our city’s children and young people. There will be lots of things to do and take part in, to suit all ages and tastes. Come along and join in the fun!”

Aimed at children and young people, the event will be co-ordinated by qualified play, youth and sports workers. Parents as well as children and young people are encouraged to attend the event.

Ends

Notes to Editors:

National Playday celebrates its 23rd anniversary this year and is co-ordinated by the Children’s Society and the Children’s Play Council. For further information view information here.