HUNDREDS of children from West Devon enjoyed a day out in the park recently — and even the sun came out to play, after weeks of rain.

Playday, the annual celebration of children's right to play, was celebrated with a fun-packed event in Tavistock Meadows.

Free play activities were available in the park, including art and craft activities, dance workshops, face painting, a bouncy castle, Totsy Turvy softplay, circus skills, Pop Kids and parachute games.

This year's Playday theme — Make time! — called for everyone to think about how they can make time for children's play and also have a great day out.

Tavistock mayor Cllr Mandy Govier, chair of the West Devon Play Forum, said: 'Play is an essential part of every child's life and is vital to their emotional and physical development.

'Research shows that, through play, children learn about themselves and the world around them, develop confidence, self-esteem and creativity.'

After the event, Emma Gorbutt the children and young people's officer for West Devon Borough Council, said the whole event was 'absolutely fantastic'.

She said: 'The feedback we got was great — everyone said how nice it was as they felt that so little happens in the area.

'As a council we are keen to support play opportunities in West Devon.'

'It was a fantastic opportunity for children to take part in National Playday and to get them playing outdoors.'

Emma added that this year was supported by West Devon Play Forum, West Devon Borough Council, Devon County Council, The Big Lottery Fund, Pop Kids, Totsy Turvy, Speedihire, Tavistock Town Council and Tavistock Library.