Now in its sixth year Parkfield opened its doors on Saturday 16 December to over 70 children and young people for their annual Christmas party.

Staff at Parkfield ensured that everyone that attended were given a special day which included activities, games and a home cooked Christmas dinner. Every child and young person also went home with a gift.

Councillor Julien Parrott, Executive Lead for Adults and Children said: “This annual party has become an important event in the calendar at Parkfield. It really brings together the generosity of local businesses and voluntary groups, the enthusiasm of young leaders, and the energy of staff to give our local children a memorable start to their Christmas holiday.

“Not every child in Torbay will eat a traditional cooked Christmas dinner, and not every child will be able to play and enjoy the festivities. Parkfield is an opportunity to invite those and other children to just come and enjoy themselves for the day. And what a great day this was with fabulous food, free climbing sessions, interactive local radio broadcasts, singing and interviewing, arts and crafts, games and sports.”

The older young people who use the outside skate park also enjoyed the day and received bacon butties and chocolate cake as the sun shone on a sunny December day.

This day would not have been possible without the support from a wide range of staff, groups and businesses. A big thank you goes to the staff of Torbay Youth Service, Torbay Young Careers, Councillor Cindy Stocks and a number of young people for organising the day, preparing, cooking and serving the dinner. Another big thank you goes to the community partners who provided food, games and toys. These included Paignton and Preston Rotary Club, BMAD, the Brixham United Reform Church, Riverford Farm and the Paignton branches of Sainsburys, Tescos and Morrisons. Sound Communities and Imagine Multicultural Group also attended to help run the festivities.