AN outdoor summer of fun for children in the Bradford district’s parks is set to get under way next week.

Bradford Council will be hosting a series of free activity-packed fun days in parks across the length and breadth of the district over the school holiday.

Activities are aimed at five to 14 years-olds and will run from 11am to 3pm every day.

The Play in Parks events will feature bouncy castles, giant games, climbing tower, sports, dancing, adventure play, art and crafts. Story-telling in the rainbow and performance arts will feature at some venues.

The programme adds to additional performance, music and theatre acts as part of council’s Summer Unlocked events programme.

Any primary school children who recently received a free pedometer from Living Well at school can bring it along and enter Olympic-style games to win prizes.

Free, healthy packed lunches are available between 12.30pm and 1.30pm, subject to demand.

The first event will take place at Bradford Moor Park on Monday, July 26. The fun will then travel around the district for six weeks with an event taking place every day up to the final event in Lister Park on Sunday, September 5.

Among the parks to be visited are Keighley’s Devonshire Park, Windhill Community Centre, Victoria Park in Clayton, Upper Wyke Recreation Ground and Knowles Park in Holmewood.

Councillor Imran Khan, Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for education, employment and skills, said: “The Play in Parks events will bring fun to all children and young people across the district after what has been a tough year for them and their families.

“We want every child in Bradford district to enjoy their holiday being active, playing and having fun with friends. It will be great to see them outside, in the fresh air, enjoying themselves and celebrating the summer.

“The range of park locations means we can ensure that free school meal and other disadvantaged children across the district have free access to fun this summer.

“I would encourage families to check out when we are coming to their local park and come along and join the fun.”

The Play in Parks events are jointly funded by the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) and Living Well.

A full list of the Play in Parks events can be found on the Bradford Council website.