A BRAINTREE church has hosted a summer ‘fun day’ for children.

The free community event saw parents and children in a “deprived” area enjoy an afternoon of fun and games in the grounds of St Paul’s Church.

There were special guests from Gemma’s Farm, ‘Silly Tilly’ the children’s entertainer, singing and dancing, bubbles and snow, lots of sports activities, and drinks and snacks.

Happy- The reverend of the church, the church's team, and ward councillors for Braintree and Becker's Green organised the event. Happy - the reverend and members of the church's team with ward councillors for Braintree and Becker's Green (Image: Cllr Tom Diamond)

It was organised by St Paul’s Messy Church Team and funded by the local councillors’ Councillor’s Community Grant.

Councillor Thomas Diamond said: “As a teacher, I know just how challenging the summer holidays can be for both children and parents.

“With the cost of living crisis biting, we know how hard it can be to give your children the opportunity to have fun, educational experiences.

“That’s why we used our councillor community grants to help fund this wonderful event.”

Family- The free event allowed parents to give their children an afternoon of fun in the school holidays. Family- The free event allowed parents to give their children an afternoon of fun in the school holidays. (Image: Cllr Tom Diamond)

He added: “Particular praise must go to Rev Richard Chand, Julie Hawtin, and the St Paul’s community for putting on this event.

“They are too honourable to take credit for this but they make a world of difference for the Braintree community.”

Other councillors were pleased to see everyone having fun and an even “bigger and better” event than last year.