HUNDREDS of families attended a fun day in Pencoedtre Park in Barry, organised by Vale of Glamorgan Council's Flying Start team.

Flying Start linked up with more than 40 services and organisations, including Vale youth service, Vale libraries, Pedal Power and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, to provide a range of free activities for families to enjoy.

Activities included graffiti painting, bouncy castles, a magician, cycling, and arts and crafts.

The day also provided an opportunity for the teams to engage with residents and raise awareness of the many free services available in the Vale of Glamorgan to support families.

Flying Start is a Welsh Government early years programme that supports families and improves children’s development, health, and wellbeing.

It comprises four entitlements which provide childcare, health visiting, parenting programmes and language development.

Flying Start manager Kathryn Clarke, said the event enabled agencies and the community to reconnect following a challenging two years.

“Our events are usually held annually, but due to the pandemic, we have had to put certain events on hold," she said.

“It has been fantastic to see so many families from across the Vale attend.

“A big 'thank you' goes to the Flying Start team and our partner agencies for making the event a huge success.”

For more information about family services and support, visit Vale of Glamorgan Council’s website.

The day is just one of many free activities available for young people this summer through the Summer Of Fun programme. This runs until September 30 and offers a range of free activities, suitable for children and young people aged up to 25.

Summer Of Fun programme details are also available via the Vale of Glamorgan Council website.

Cllr Eddie Williams, cabinet member for social care and health, said of the Pencoedtre Park event: “Many services and organisations collaborated to make the event such a success, which in turn saw hundreds of young people enjoying themselves and taking part in fun activities, all for no cost.

“Following the challenges that families have faced during recent times due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important that our family services are again engaging with local residents to raise awareness of the help and support available to them.

“Well done to everyone involved.”