MORE than 100 people turned out to celebrate the end of Covid-19 lockdowns when Evenwood held its first community event for more than a year.
Presented by Randolph Community Centre, the fun day on August 21 featured traditional games such as a coconut shy, as well as children’s favourites a helter-skelter and a giant bouncy castle.
A hit with the crowd was a bucking bronco which drew a large queue.
Inside, parents were treated to a variety of stalls.
Centre manager John Bogle said he had been concerned the weather would not play along as most of the activities took place outside.
He added: “When I looked at the weather forecast I thought this is going to be a waste of time, but it went off well and I was over the moon.”
The day was free to anyone from the village with the cost of the activities covered by the centre. The following day the centre hosted 36 over-50s to an afternoon tea – also a free event sponsored by the centre. In addition, this summer the centre completed its Christmas raffle which had to be postponed and about £200 was raised.
Mr Bogle said he hoped the cash could be used to partly-fund a defibrillator for the village’s two care homes.
Meanwhile, Punch and Judy, wacky races and friendly games were the order of the day when Evenwood’s St Paul’s Church brought back its annual fun day after it was cancelled last year.
Good weather saw a good crowd arrive for the event on August 18.
Along with the child-friendly games, parents enjoyed tombola and a raffle along with an exhibition of photographs, documents and items presented by Evenwood and District History Society.
Brian Carter, from the society, said: “Enjoyment was had by handling some of the items and where possible trying them out such as a Second World War ARP helmet, a bugle and gas mask.
“Refreshments were supplied by the ladies of the church with drinks and homemade cakes and scones. St Paul’s Church was very grateful for all the help given in setting up and organising the day which it is now hoped will be back to bring held each year again.”
