CHILDREN in Somerset had the chance to enjoy a range of exciting activities during the last few weeks - all from the comfort of their own homes.

PlayDay events, organised by South Somerset District Council (SSDC), are usually held throughout the summer holidays but this year, due to the coronavirus crisis, the days out were cancelled.

Instead, SSDC decided to provide 2,000 PlayBox activity boxes to families.

These boxes included arts and crafts, baking, environmental activities and outdoor play.

Councillor Mike Best, the council’s portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said: “It was brilliant to see the smiles on people’s faces as they collected a PlayBox.

"Many families look forward to the PlayDay events each year and we are proud to be able to adapt to the times and still provide play activities to our communities.”

In total, 1,850 boxes were given out at four collection points - Kingsbury Episcopi Recreation Ground near Langport, Cale Park in Wincanton, Jocelyn Park in Chard and Yeovil Recreation Centre.

The remaining 150 boxes were given to food banks in the area.

SSDC, Yarlington Housing Association and Yeovil Town Council have hosted PlayDays for many years.