Telford families gather for teddy bears’ picnic

If you went down to the park today . . . you would have bumped into hundreds of children enjoying themselves.

A free fun day for families, including a massive teddy bears’ picnic, was organised by Telford & Wrekin Council, Asda Active and Fields in Trust to encourage people to enjoy a more active lifestyle.

The event at Telford Town Park offered football, martial arts, athletics and many more activities for children and their parents and carers.

Up to 500 people were expected to attend the event.

It has been organised to support the Telford Town Park Arena run by the Fields in Trust organisation.

Fields in Trust is marking the Diamond Jubilee by protecting 2,012 outdoor spaces from development.

Alison Moore-Gwyn, chief executive of Fields in Trust, said: “We’re thrilled to see such a great event on a Queen Elizabeth II Field.”

Asda Telford’s community champion Georgie Johnson said: “The Asda Active Zone has given local families the chance to come and enjoy their newly-protected space and try sports and activities they may not normally have the chance to.

“Hopefully people will carry on the sport at a local club and continue to enjoy their outdoor space.”

Councillor Arnold England, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member for leisure and well-being, said: “Free sporting activities during the school holidays is a great way to engage with the community and get more families in Telford and Wrekin more active.”

Councillor Leon Murray, the deputy mayor of Telford & Wrekin, unveiled a plaque to celebrate the arena’s protected status.