(Image: Supplied)
A cash boost from County Durham and Darlington Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen helped thousands of families enjoy free rides and activities at a landmark community event.
The Chester-le-Street Police Activity Week, funded in part by £5,000 from the PCC, celebrated its 20th anniversary with five days of family fun from August 3.
Held at Burns Green, the event organised by the Chester-le-Street Neighbourhood Policing Team attracted between 20,000 and 30,000 visitors.
Joy Allen, Police and Crime Commissioner for County Durham and Darlington, 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."
The event costs more than £30,000 to host and is funded entirely through donations from businesses, councillors, partner agencies and members of the public.
The commissioner’s contribution ensured that all rides and activities remained free for children throughout the week.
New attractions this year included a karting circuit alongside traditional fairground rides, inflatable slides and castles, a mobile climbing wall, mini-golf, and a five-a-side football pitch.
Families were also treated to interactive emergency services demonstrations, and members of the policing team were available to discuss any concerns about crime.
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.
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"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."
Residents wishing to support the next event can donate online at www.gofundme.com/u/ddcc0037-ff0a-4bff-ab95-b1a9692b7dc9.