Children in Burnham-On-Sea enjoyed a ‘flaming’ good evening on Wednesday (December 18th) when the recently-launched Play Rangers service held a bonfire night.
Over the last few months, children’s charity Barnardo’s South West has hosted almost 2,000 visits to parks across the South West as part of its Play Rangers scheme, including weekly visits to Apex Park in Highbridge.
On Wednesday, the children at Apex were taught how to safely make an outdoor fire, as pictured here.
Funded by local district councils with help from the National Lottery, play rangers operate free weekly outdoor activities for children aged five and above.
Barnardo’s team leader Debbie Jones told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “At first we found that many parents were afraid to let their children out to play, particularly as the days started to get shorter.”
“However, we’ve managed to reassure them that there are plenty of things which their children can do and enjoy safely.”
“Even when it gets dark, we can show them how to build small fires and toast marshmallows, and we can provide lanterns so that they can climb small trees.”
“Parents realise they shouldn’t try to ‘wrap them in cotton wool’ and are happy to let them meet new people and make new friends, which helps to boost their self-confidence and self-esteem.”
“In addition, playing locally helps to develop a stronger sense of belonging and of pride in the community. Children develop more respect for the area and the people that live there. Everyone benefits.”
Activities run from 4-6pm each Wednesday at Apex Park and are currently on a Christmas break until Monday January 5th.
