More than 60 youngsters with learning disabilities enjoyed an action packed sports day at the Lifeworks Free Family Fun Day held at Torbay Leisure Centre and Velopark.
The popular event, run by the Dartington-based charity, made a welcome return following a two-year Covid break and was hailed a huge success by organisers.
Mark Thorneywork, organiser and Lifeworks community programme officer, said:
“The Gods were kind, the weather was with us and all of you held the space beautifully.
“It was great to see so many people come along and to give out some long overdue certificates to some of our amazing young people”.
Run in partnership with several local charities including Play Torbay, Premier Education, ACTIVE Devon, Freetrike Disability Cycling, PHAB Club Torquay, Velopark Veterans, Lift-the-Lid and Lex Leisure, the event encourages children and young people with learning disabilities from across Devon to be active.
A host of multi-disciplinary inclusive sports were on offer including cycling, archery, rugby, football, boccia and basketball.
Sarah-Jane Lowson, Lifeworks community projects development manager thanked everyone who took part and helped run the sports day.
“It was lovely to be able to connect with families with disabled children and with our local community sports facilities, as well as to celebrate young people with learning disabilities who have kept active during the pandemic, have learnt new skills and have helped in their community.
“These activity events exist not only so the young people we work with can take part, whatever the sport may be, but so they can do so with their families and peers.
“Being able to be active with siblings ‘on equal terms’ is relatively rare and special.
“It strengthens bonds between family members taking part.
“For the young people with a learning disability, taking part isn’t about wanting the extraordinary. It is about living an ordinary life.”
Enthusiastic parents described the event a “brilliant day,” with one reporting their son hailing it his “best day ever!”