Residents in a corner of Newbury will be out in strength this weekend to enjoy dozens of fun activities laid on at the first Clay Hill community day.

Local families will have the chance to win prizes, try their hand at drumming or circus skills, and to learn more about the local services available, at a series of community events centred on the Riverside Centre, Rosemoor Gardens.

The day is the brainchild of the Clay Hill Association and Neighbourhood Action Group, and kicks off a week of activities and events involving partner agencies West Berkshire Council, Sovereign Housing Association, Thames Valley Police and Newbury Town Council.

Clay Hill Association and Neighbourhood Action Group chairman Grahame Farquhar said: “We’re looking for a healthy turnout to prove to the wider world that the Clay Hill community is alive and well. It’s a chance for children to have fun in a safe environment, and an occasion for all to get involved in making our part of Newbury safer.”

The Community Day runs on Saturday October 20 from 10am-5pm, and will feature two climbing towers, a chance to learn circus skills, facepainting, a dog agility display, African drumming workshop, plus a drama performance at Trinity School. Additionally, a prize draw offers the chance ot win a new mobile phone, family photoshoot, DIY vouchers, and a TV.

Sovereign’s Housing director Jim Holah added: “It’s been four years since we got together with the police, council and residents to try and improve the quality of life for all in Clay Hill, not just our residents. We’re expecting the day and the whole Clay Hill Partnership Action Week to be a big success, and look forward to similar events in the future.”

Further events during the following week include a halloween disco, firemen performing home safety checks, and youth activities based at Trinity School.

Emma Webster, West Berkshire's Councillor for Community safety said: "The Safer Communities Partnership is pleased to be able to play an active part in the Clay Hill week of activities. We have seen from other areas in the district the huge benefits that can be gained from community events such as this and I am sure that this day will be a great success."

Sgt Simon Briggs of Newbury Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This is an exceptional event organised by the Clayhill Neighbourhood Action Group which will lead into a week of action in the area, which includes not only fun events for all but also an increased presence by Police, neighbourhood wardens and others”.

Published 16 October 2007
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