A SUMMER scheme which provides a holiday programme of activities to youngsters in Holsworthy has been praised by the town’s mayor.

The summer events are run by LJD Coaching and are hosted at Holsworthy Primary School with the events forming part of the Holsworthy Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme which runs four days a week during the holidays.

It is provided for children age five and 16 and eligible for benefits related free school meals, with the HAF programme funded by the government.

The events offer children a wide range of activities such as sports, music, arts and craft in a fun and supportive environment.

Holsworthy Town Council have also supported the scheme and as part of this support, the mayor was invited to visit the scheme to meet the staff and children.

It was met with praise by the mayor, who saw the activities underway.

Cllr Jon Hutchings said after his visit: “The council recently agreed to support the Holsworthy HAF Holiday program which is being run by LJD coaching at the Holsworthy Primary School.

“I was invited along to meet with some of the children and staff. Outdoor and indoor activities were underway and lots of smiles from the children. I asked a couple of them if it was better than staying at home and they said yes!”

Cllr Hutching’s choice of attire for the event, comprising of his red mayoral robes was also the subject of some curiosity from the children, one of which appeared to confuse the mayor with an unexpected arrival of Father Christmas in the middle of the summer heatwave.

The mayor added: “I was also asked a few questions, including why Father Christmas was here in August.

“Thank you to LJD Coaching for making this happen in Holsworthy during the summer Holidays, hopefully they will return next summer.”