A fun-filled event at Lichfield Cathedral has signalled the official launch of a summer of activity for Space 2019.
Staffordshire’s Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, Matthew Ellis
dropped into a session to help young people build miniature moon buggies out of household items.
Matthew said: ‘Seeing the excitement and joy of children is exactly what Space is all about and that was very apparent during my visit to see the wonderful work delivered by Lichfield Cathedral and Lichfield District Council.
‘Space is not just about traditional sporting activities, but also about creativity, art, and being inspired, which I most certainly was.
‘Since its relaunch in 2015, the Space programme has gone from strength to strength with year-on-year attendances increasing each time and levels of anti-social behaviour dipping during these weeks. Each year we receive very positive feedback from young people and I’d encourage anyone between 8 and 17 to get involved.’
Space aims to provide fun, positive activities throughout the school summer holiday and gives young people from across the county the opportunity to build their confidence, develop life skills, improve their health and general wellbeing.
Leader of Lichfield District Council, Doug Pullen said: “Space is a brilliant initiative led by the Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime. It was great that this summer’s programme kicked off in Lichfield District with a moon themed activity at Lichfield Cathedral that also marked the 50th anniversary of the moon landings.
‘As a dad of five, I know how important it is for young people to have access to a range of fun, good value and positive opportunities to take part in over the summer months, and I’d like to thank all those involved in making today’s and other events across the summer possible.’
Space was introduced by the Commissioner, with a view to bringing together public, voluntary and private sector organisations to help nurture, support and guide youngsters across the county.
Full details of the Space programme, which runs until Friday 30 August, can be found on the web site at www.staffordshirespace.uk
Photo credit: Lichfield Cathedral
