Play rangers to run sessions at Weston-super-Mare park

PLAY rangers will be running activities for youngsters at a Weston-super-Mare park as part of a new scheme to help them make new friends.

Charity Barnardo's has launched the scheme to promote outdoor play on the Coronation Estate to build young people's self confidence, reduce isolation and encourage them to make new friends.

Activities will include sports and team games as well as building dens and climbing trees and take place at Jubilee Park each Thursday from 3.30pm-5pm starting on September 20.

Additional sessions will run during school holidays.

Barnardo's team leader Anthony Hill said: "Play rangers have proved to be a very effective way of engaging young people.

"This will be the first time that the charity has provided them in North Somerset but they've already been very popular in other parts of the region.

"The benefits are enormous - children can enjoy playing together in a safe environment, strengthening local communities and learning how to manage conflict.

"Outdoor play is great for their health and it helps to promote the use of local parks too."

The sessions, which have been funded by North Somerset Council, are aimed to children aged from five-16 years old, although younger children can also enjoy the fun and games if they are accompanied by an adult.

There are no specific timetables and activities are shaped by what the young people want on the day itself.

Local people also have the opportunity to get involved by supporting the sessions as a volunteer.

For further information on the service, call Barnardo's on 01934 415374 or email Daniel.matthews@barnardos.org.uk