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Thousands of children and families can enjoy action-packed summer holiday activities

Tourism, Museums and The Arts
14:56, Thursday, 20th July 2023

With the holidays fast approaching, families can look forward to an action-packed summer break with a raft of activities taking place across North Lincolnshire.

PLAY! Scunthorpe, a family fun day, comes to town on 5 August. Church Square will be the centre of activities with fun things to see and do.

As part of the day, 20-21 will be hosting a Robotic Showstopper event and Scunthorpe Central and St John’s Market will both have a range of hands on activities, giving people a chance to play together and try something new.

With the council also throwing open the doors to all five of its pools for free swimming, the return of the Fuelled holiday activity programme, and Party in the Park, Normanby Hall’s family music festival, there is something for everyone.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “In the countdown to summer, families often ask me about activities to keep their children entertained that won’t break the bank during the six-week break.

“Earlier this month we launched the Summer Reading Challenge in Scunthorpe town centre with exciting activities that saw more than 600 people visit Central Library, and we’ve organised more events across our town centres and attractions – many of which won’t cost families a penny to enter.

“I’m delighted that we’ve kept our promise and will – once again – be opening all our pools for free swimming, which I know families really appreciate. We are also launching brand new events in and around Church Square in Scunthorpe town centre. There is so much to enjoy.”

Photo of three children playing in an indoor pool

Free swimming returns this summer

Summer Daze free swimming sessions will take place at different times at The Pods in Scunthorpe, Ancholme Leisure Centre in Brigg, Axholme North Leisure Centre in Crowle, Baysgarth Community Hub in Barton-upon-Humber, Riddings Community Hub in Scunthorpe and at Epworth Swimming Pool. Visit the council website to view pool timetables.

As well as free swimming, Fuelled, the council’s Government-funded holiday activity programme returns bigger and better than ever, with a record 54 providers offering more than 70 clubs and activities.

Young people aged 5 to 16 years old eligible for the Fuelled programme have been contacted directly, either by a letter home, or via email or text. Many providers are also opening up paid places on their activities. Please contact providers directly.

Other family activities taking place include the ‘Ready, Set, Read!’ Summer Reading Challenge, which this year is all about reading, sport and play.

All children need to do is register for the scheme at their local library and read six books over the summer for a chance to win amazing prizes – including rucksacks, frisbees and fitness trackers.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “As a parent myself I appreciate that the six-week summer break sometimes feels a long time to keep children occupied.

“It’s fantastic to see such a great variety of activities taking place, which will help our young people get out of the house, stay active and make new friends.”

Cultural attractions across the area are also joining the summer fun. Families can meet the Vikings and get hands on with dozens of free activities at North Lincolnshire Museum’s Living History Day on Saturday 22 July.

Picture shows three Vikings from the historical group Regia Anglorum

Meet the Vikings!

Waters’ Edge celebration of all things wildlife returns on Sunday 30 July. Visit the Barton-based nature reserve to meet the alpacas, birds of prey and a variety of reptiles and take part in outdoor-inspired activities.

A handy what’s on guide for events taking place across North Lincolnshire is available in the latest issue News Direct.

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