The afternoon's activities included Space Hopper, sack, egg and spoon and mini-sprint track races, wellie wanging and a tug o' war. Tynedale Harriers kindly organised and sponsored four serious one-mile perimeter races. The winners' achievements were celebrated with gold, silver and bronze medals on a specially built podium. Medals were presented by Bill Jordon, a 2012 Olympic Relay torch runner and Kevin Forster, 1988 Seoul Olympics marathon runner.
Stamina was maintained with the provision of refreshments from the pavilion, Rea's ice cream and the Hungry Elephant with their spectacular tent. Competitions alternated with entertainment by the Electric Band, Floralprint, Dean, a yet-to-be-named band from Ovingham Middle School and dance routines by Energize. All young and all so talented. Stalls provided a mixture of fun and information. You could make your own health drink on The Smoothy Bike, slide down the bouncy castle, get your face painted, make crafty things and even get your blood pressure checked. The Beat-the-Goalie goalie was still saving penalties three hours after the event had finished!
The event was very well attended and feedback has been very positive and encouraging. It wouldn't have been possible were it not for the tremendous amount of preparation done by the twenty plus volunteers on the planning team. The Reading Room committee has also been very supportive both with practical help and by providing marquees, gazebos and loads of other equipment needed for the event.
After a short break to catch their breath, the planning team aim to get together in a few weeks to make a start thinking about next year.
Now the bunting is down and the marquees packed away, the field looks very bare ... except for the youngsters happily playing there.
