THOUSANDS of people in the mood for summer fun descended on Baildon for a free event celebrating children's right to play.

The town's recreation centre today hosted the annual National Play Day event for the Bradford district, which organisers estimate attracted more than 2,000 people.

National Play Day celebrates every child's right to play and Bradford celebrates each year with activities organised by voluntary and community organisations.

One of the Council's main goals was to bring together children from different backgrounds from across the district and unite them in play.

Councillor Andrew Thornton, Bradford Council's executive member for environment and sport, said: "This fantastic free event encourages communities to come together and more parents to play with their children. This is one of the biggest events of its kind in the country."

Andrew Burns, the Council's business development manager, said yesterday was just as busy as previous years and despite showers, families still showed up in their hundreds.

He said there were at least 2,000 people enjoying the day.

Attractions included zorbing in giant inflatable balls, an outdoor climbing wall, a rodeo bull, a soapy water slide and bouncy castle. There was also dancing, go-karting, a skate park, arts and crafts activities, music, swing ball, donkey rides and games.

Children could also explore a treasure hunt and build dens.

And if that was not enough, a mini-seaside, bungee trampolining, an inflatable assault course and inflatable slide offered children even more fun.

A similar event is also being held at Keighley's Victoria Park on Friday from 1pm until 4.30pm.