Resurrected welfare fun day goes down a treat

The Harton and Westoe Miners’ Welfare Club in South Shields opened its doors to scores of families to take part in activities from traditional races to bouncy castles and face paining.

The decision was made to resurrect the once-annual event by the club’s committee.

Gordon Diamond, chairman, said: “Every year there would be an event like this, but in recent times this hadn’t been the case.

“We had a go last year and held a small fun day and, this year, thought we’d do it properly and have all of the traditional races and obstacle courses.

“All of the kids get a bag of sweets and a medal for the winners.

“The local police and fire brigade have also came along. It’s been brilliant and we’re very pleased with the turnout.”

Members of Cruse Bereavement Care Tyneside were also on hand to raise awareness of the charity which hopes to generate £30,0000 in 12 months to provide support for the borough’s grieving children.

In a bid to boost their coffers, volunteers took part in the ‘ice bucket challenge’ – which sees water being thrown over them in lieu of a donation, before they then nominate other people to do the same.

Last year’s Mayor, Coun Ernest Gibson, who is a member of Cruse crew, said: “So far today we’ve raised about £200, but the money keeps coming in.

“We want more people to know about this service which will bring bereavement support to the children of South Tyneside.

“The ice bucket challenge was freezing, but I’m now nominating the Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Fay Cunningham, to do it on the steps of South Shields Town Hall.”

Twitter: @shieldsgazvez