CHILDREN across South Somerset will be jumping with fun and laughter as part of a new district council initiative.

Communities in the district will benefit from the council’s Playdays scheme, which will visit 14 towns and villages during the summer holidays.

South Somerset District Council (SSDC) will also provide funding for six other communities to organise events.

Steve Barnes, young people’s officer at SSDC, said: “We offer these Playdays as a way giving families an exciting range of free activities during the summer holidays.

“They are a great way of bringing communities together and last year in excess of 10,000 people came along to enjoy free play fun.

“Activities vary at each location and participants can get to enjoy fun ranging from arts and crafts to challenging adventures on a mobile climbing wall.

"Playdays not only increase the range of play for residents but also offer the chance to meet people and make new friends.

“Our aim is to empower the communities to take on the organisation of the Playdays and we can with this transition by offering small grants and any support they need.”

Councillor Sylvia Seal, portfolio holder for leisure and culture added: “This is part of South Somerset District Council’s ongoing work to increase and improve play opportunities for children in the district.

"Playdays have a special relaxed atmosphere and we hope the communities once more come out in large numbers to enjoy themselves.”

To find your nearest Playday visit southsomerset.gov.uk/playdays or facebook.com/PlayYouthSouthSomerset.