With the school holidays now in full swing, parents in Pembrokeshire may be hearing the first protests of 'Mum, I'm bored!' But there is no reason to despair! You only need to go as far as your local leisure centre to find a fun-packed day of free activities available each week throughout the summer break at Pembrokeshire Leisure's Family Fun Days. There was a record breaking turnout at the first Fun Day when 300 children and around 200 adults bussed in from around the county took advantage of the free activities available at Haverfordwest Leisure Centre. Further play days will be held at various locations across Pembrokeshire over the coming weeks from 10 am to 4 pm each Wednesday. The activities which are run in conjunction with the Welsh Assembly Government's Free Swim Initiative aim to develop children's sense of fun and adventure with activities like obstacle courses, treasure hunts, water-sports, musical activities and magic. There is something for everyone at each play day with activities split into four zones with sections for both physical and creative activity, a games area and a quiet zone. As an added benefit, free transport is available from a number of pre-arranged locations and parents are advised to contact their local leisure centre for further information. The Welsh Assembly Government's Minister responsible for Sport, Rhodri Glyn Thomas said: "There are countless activities that families can engage in over the summer holidays which can help fulfil the physical activity quota as well as incorporating that all important fun factor - without having to break the bank! "Taking the plunge in the local pool is just one example of an activity that does just that. The Free Swimming initiative has gone from strength to strength since its launch and local authority pools have long been teeming with eager aquatic enthusiasts capitalising on the innovative programme. "With activities such as water polo and kayaking on offer through the scheme at some facilities, it is a clear demonstration of how a trip to the pool can quite literally be a priceless distraction for weary parents of restless youngsters over the summer holidays." Parents are also reminded that local authority leisure centres in Pembrokeshire are offering free swimming and splash sessions as well as other water-based activities as part of the summer holiday programme. Clr. Rob Lewis from Pembrokeshire County Council said this year's holiday programme placed an emphasis on keeping children and families active throughout the whole of the holiday period. "We've worked very hard to bring an enjoyable, meaningful and exciting programme of play activities and sport for the children and young people of Pembrokeshire." The fun sessions were funded by the Cymorth Grant from the Welsh Assembly Government and are facilitated by Pembrokeshire County Council's Playwork Team who are vigorously trained to ensure and professional and varied programme of activities takes place. Future Play Days throughout the school holidays will be held on: August 15 - Tenby Leisure Centre; August 22 - Fishguard Leisure Centre; August 29 - Crymych Leisure Centre.
