Thousands of visitors turned out for the annual family activities week, which this year celebrated 20 years of bringing families together and supporting local communities.
Chester-le-Street Police Activity Week returned to Burns Green on Monday (August 3) with an even bigger and better lineup of family entertainment – all free of charge.
An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 people headed to the popular five-day event, hosted by the Chester-le-Street Neighbourhood Policing Team, before the festivities drew to a close on Friday (August 7th).
County Durham and Darlington Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen provided funding worth £5k towards the week, as she has for the past four years, ensuring every single ride and activity remained free of charge for all children.
The event costs over £30k to host and relies entirely on donations with local businesses, councillors, partner agencies and members of the public contributing much-needed funds throughout the year to keep the event going year after year.
This year’s event brought new attractions including a karting circuit alongside traditional fairground rides, inflatable slides and castles, a mobile climbing wall, mini-golf and a dedicated five-a-side football pitch.
Families were also entertained by several interactive emergency services demonstrations, with members of the policing team on hand to discuss any concerns about crime.
Visitors were encouraged to pack a picnic and a blanket to take advantage of all the summer activities on offer. There were also a variety of stalls selling food, drinks and toys.
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said: “Every year, Activities Week just gets bigger and better, and I am proud to offer my support again for this very special, community-focused event.
“It’s a great opportunity for me to get feedback with regard to policing priorities from local residents, and we were able to answer their questions on crime, anti-social behaviour and victims’ services.
“This year marks 20 years since the inaugural Activities Week was staged. This is a remarkable achievement and testament to the passion, commitment and tireless fundraising of the Chester le Street Neighbourhood Policing Team who manage to pull it together year after year.
“I know how much local families appreciate this event and the time and effort that goes into organising it. It could not happen without the support of the sponsors, and I thank all those who donated to keep this fantastic event a firm fixture in the summer calendar.”
Event organisers PCSO Adrian Richards BEM and Security Officer PCSO Louise Bridge from Chester-le-Street Police said: “We would like to thank all members of the public who attended the event and helped make this year's event the biggest and most successful so far. However, we are already making arrangements for the next event, in 2027.
“We are already approaching sponsors to help finance next year's event, and we have also set up a GoFundMe account so that members of the community can donate via the QR code. By donating, you can help make the 2027 Activity Week the best ever.”
https://www.gofundme.com/u/ddcc0037-ff0a-4bff-ab95-b1a9692b7dc9.
Ends
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