Summer 2024 Review
Posted on 4th September 2024 at 09:15
Review: A Summer Full of Fun and Community
This summer, our parish was buzzing with vibrant activities that brought families together and created lasting memories for children and adults alike. From creative workshops to exciting sports sessions, the events offered something for everyone, making it a truly memorable season.
We kicked off the summer in style with our Family Fun Day at Conniburrow Community Centre, and it was a fantastic start to the season! The event was jam-packed with free activities that appealed to all ages, from inflatable games and face painting to live entertainment and interactive workshops. The atmosphere was vibrant, with families coming together to enjoy a day full of laughter and community spirit. The turnout was impressive, with many residents attending and making the most of the beautiful weather. It was the perfect way to launch our summer, setting the tone for the exciting weeks ahead.
Conniburrow Children’s Centre held Family Activity Sessions every Tuesday at Conniburrow Community Centre. These were a hit with parents and young children alike the Community Centre was transformed into a lively space filled with crafts and games. The sessions were well attended, and it was wonderful to see the little ones exploring new activities and making new friends.
Great Linford Community Hub ran Kids Activity Sessions at Great Linford High Street Pavilion A variety of activities kept everyone engaged and the sense of community was strong, as kids of different ages played and learned together in a safe and welcoming environment.
Basketball Sessions with MK Breakers were another standout, especially for older kids. Every Friday, the outdoor courts at Conniburrow Community Centre were filled with energy as children and teens honed their skills and enjoyed some healthy competition.
For those with a creative flair, the Summer Art Club at Milton Keynes Arts Centre was a true gem. This six-week programme offered a range of workshops in everything from painting to eco-printing, led by professional artists. The workshops were not just about art—they fostered creativity, confidence, and collaboration among the participants. The inclusive atmosphere made it accessible for residents of nearby neighbourhoods, and the results were stunning, with each child proudly displaying their creations.
A grant from Great Linford Parish Council, combined with a generous donation from a resident, made it possible for the Great Linford Community Hub to take 49 people on a wonderful day out to the beach. For some families, it was the first time they had the opportunity to take their children to the seaside.
Special events like the Ark Farm Petting Zoo and the Mini Fun Day at Conniburrow Community Centre were also huge successes. The Ark Farm visit was a delightful experience for animal lovers, with children having the chance to interact with a variety of friendly farm animals. The Mini Fun Day, featuring inflatables and face painting, was pure joy for kids of all ages. The laughter and smiles were contagious, and parents appreciated the free, family-friendly entertainment.
The APF Activity Camp was a standout addition to this summer's events, offering dynamic drop-in sessions at Conniburrow Community Centre, these sessions featured a variety of sports and activities that kept children aged 10-14 active and entertained. The camp was open to younger children as well, making it an inclusive event for families. With its focus on fun, fitness, and skill-building, the APF Activity Camp was a perfect way to keep kids engaged during the holidays.
Finally, the Grand Opening of Conniburrow Community Centre brought the summer to a fantastic close. Local dignitaries and VIPs attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our community.
As part of the day's festivities, Milton Keynes Play Association ran a session with climbing activities, sports, and creative play options, there was no shortage of fun. There were also inflatables and face painting!
The celebration was a true reflection of the community spirit, as residents came together to enjoy free afternoon tea, games, and activities. It was a wonderful day filled with joy and community spirit, perfectly capping off a summer of memorable events.
Tommy Hayes, Community Liaison Officer, Great Linford Parish Council
"Reflecting on the summer holidays, I’m delighted to see how our community came together to enjoy the free activities we offered. These events were a fantastic way for families to connect, have fun, and create lasting memories. It was wonderful to witness people of all ages and interests engaging in the opportunities provided, making the most of the activities in our parish."
Asma Moustaoui, Community Development Coordinator, Conniburrow
"It was truly wonderful to see so many people come together to enjoy the summer activities in Conniburrow. The diversity of our residents was on full display as people from all walks of life joined in the fun, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Conniburrow was alive with activity, and the sense of community was palpable. It was heartwarming to witness how these events brought us closer together, highlighting the strength and unity of our community.
I believe the Tuesday session on August 6th has been the best one yet. During this session, Ark Farm attended with their animals both inside and outside the hall, which added a wonderful dynamic to the event. During this session, Ark Farm attended with their animals both inside and outside the hall, which added a wonderful dynamic to the event.
Between 9 AM and 1 PM, we had almost 100 individuals visiting the Centre in small groups. At one point, there were about 50 individuals, most of them children, visiting Ark Farm, interacting with the animals, asking questions, and then enjoying the snacks provided by the GLPC.
I witnessed incredible diversity in the Tuesday sessions. People from all backgrounds and different faiths attended. Both Muslim and Jewish families were present, and it was heartwarming to see their children playing together. Adults from various backgrounds sat at the same tables, enjoying snacks and games that facilitated interaction and connection.
It was fantastic to see people coming together and giving children something enjoyable to do during the holiday. This event was particularly significant for many families, considering the transportation and costs they would typically need to spend for a day out like this.
Ed Nixon, Chair of Great Linford Parish Council.
“The summer activities were a tremendous success. Great Linford Parish Council not only provided free, accessible entertainment but also strengthened community bonds and encouraged children to explore new interests.”
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