THOUSANDS of families flocked to a Basingstoke park last week to enjoy a fantastic range of free activities on offer as part of National Play Day.

More than 10,000 adults and children took part in the fun at the Green Flag awarded Eastrop Park, which was the highest attendance ever recorded for National Play Day in Basingstoke and Deane.

There were activities on offer for all ages and abilities, including bouncy castles, circus skills, farmyard animals, sports and dance, and plenty of entertaining performances.

The free event was organised by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in partnership with RCS Services to mark National Play Day.

Parents were encouraged to bring their children along to the town centre park for a free, fun-filled day of entertainment during the school summer holidays.

Organisations such as the RSPB, Inspero and Home Start volunteered their time to educate children through fun and environmental games.

National Play Day aims to highlight the importance of play in children’s lives and encourages them to learn while having fun outdoors, and takes place every year across the UK.

Councillor Simon Bound, cabinet member for communities and community safety at the borough council, said: “I am delighted so many families came along to join in the free fun. With the school summer holidays being so long, many parents often can’t find activities for their children without breaking the bank.

“Play Day had a wealth of free activities that weren’t just fun, but were also educational and could inspire ideas for activities throughout the summer. It was great to walk around and see so many people enjoying all of the activities available.”