Diocesan News
Children and animals at Family Fun Day
WC Fields said, “Never work with children or animals.” The celebrated comedian must’ve been turning in his grave as his advice was completely and thoroughly disregarded in Limavady on Saturday at the Derry and Raphoe Mothers’ Union’s Family Fun Day.
The event – which took place in splendid sunshine – was a resounding success and, while it may not have constituted a miracle, the organisers did manage a feeding of the 500. That was the number of children and adults – from two dozen different parishes – who descended on Roe Valley Leisure Centre for a fun–filled day.
A packed programme of activities included arts and crafts, an adventure play area, bouncy castles, swimming and sports, a puppet show, and entertainment by Mr Tumble and Buddy the Clown; but the highlight, for many, was Casey’s Creatures – a half–hour show which brought children and adults up close and personal with a variety of creatures, including a boa constrictor, an eagle owl and a raccoon dog.
The Diocesan President of Mothers’ Union, Mrs Mary Good, declared herself well–pleased with how the day had gone. “We didn’t get a single negative comment,” she explained, “everyone stayed safe and we were even blessed with glorious sunshine.”
The BBQ team turned out fifty burgers every ten minutes during their frenetic two–hour shift, and there was nourishment of a spiritual kind as the day closed with a Service led by the Rev Canon Harold Given, Rector of Tamlaghtfinlagan and Myroe Parishes. Canon Given was assisted by the Diocesan Children’s Officer, Kirsty Lynch, who led the youngsters in hymn–singing.
The Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, the Rt Rev Ken Good, presented prizes to children who had won competitions organised by MU and run by Sunday School teachers. The Bishop congratulated all who had made the day a success and singled out two people for particular mention: Jennifer Given (Vice–President in charge of the MU’s Action and Outreach Unit) and Anita Hill, who is the Young Members’ representative.
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Derry & Raphoe
Mr Paul McFadden
028 7126 2440
07525 826290
press@derryandraphoe.org