Snowballs and sandcastles at annual play day

On the beach: Youngsters enjoy Rochdale’s Play Day.

Snowballs and sandcastles were seen in Broadfield Park yesterday (Wednesday August 5) as part of Rochdale's annual Play Day, with thousands of children, parents and carers enjoying a day of activities.

The theme for the day was ‘Make Time’ and in Rochdale there was a focus on the four seasons.

A winter wonderland offered snow, igloos and fishing while on the ‘beach’ there was sand, sea and donkey rides. An autumn maze and a field of handmade spring flowers completed the theme, while a mini farm, water slide and giant spider climbing frame were just some of the other activities on offer.

The event was organised by Rochdale Council’s Play Development Team. Team manager Shirley Lundergan said: “It was a fantastic day which was very well supported by people from Rochdale borough. The sight of children having fun throwing snowballs in the middle of August, while a few yards away, others were building sandcastles and paddling, was amazing."

Play Day is the national celebration of children’s right to play and is now in its 22nd year.