‘Feel-good day’ highlights community spirit at Graylingwell Park

Rhys Griffiths, Sarah Boulding and James Partner from Chichester University play some ball games with the visitors LA150054-1

The event, on Saturday, July 11, was organised by Chichester Community Development Trust and Chichester District Scouts, who said it brought hundreds of people from Graylingwell Park and the surrounding areas and villages together for a fantastic celebration and feel-good day.

Aaron Rice, the trust’s deputy events manager, said: “Bathed in sunshine, everyone loved the music, including live music from the Chichester Rock Choir and the New Community Rock Choir, as well all the various activities for young and old alike, including tractor trailer rides, sports and Zumba sessions, and the dog zone.

“This year, the dog zone was organised by The Youth Ambassadors, a dynamic group of young people who wish to make their communities a better place to live.

Tracey Turner and prize winning Molly the Pooschi pup LA150054-2

“It was a fantastic success and included an obstacle course, thanks to Mad About Dogs, free microchipping, and the chance to learn how to teach dog tricks, thanks to the Downland Veterinary group and Mad about Dogs.”

The Youth Ambassadors then ran a dog show and helped judge many classes, including waggiest tail, fluffiest dog and loudest bark. They had secured funding for 100 doggy bags to give away, laden with toys, treats and disposable dog poo bags, and used the opportunity to talk to dog owners about fouling and the negative effect it has on the lives of local children.

Scouts and other local groups ran classic side shows, including the crockery smash, which was a huge hit, and the runaway train.

The day was sponsored by the trust and Linden Homes, and the funds raised will support Chichester District Scouts and local youth projects.

Tying knots - Funtington and West Stoke Scout group's Clare Hoskings and Harry Bennett, eight LA150054-3

Jane Haskins, the trust’s community development officer, said: “The day couldn’t have gone better. We had double the amount of entries for the dog show than last year, and the choirs went down a storm.

“The success of the event was all down to our fantastic staff and volunteers.”

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