Untitled

Press, 25 January 1979, Page 3

Latimer Square resembled a school playground yesterday as hundreds of excited, noisy children clambered over obstacles, made clay models and pictures, and generally enjoyed themselves. Wide-ranging activities in both Latimer Square and Cathedral Square were organised by the Christchurch Playgrounds Advisory Committee to mark “Play Day,” which was observed throughout New Zealand. The activities catered for every child. Budding young artists, like those on the left, concentrated on painting, while Sara Withycombe and Jacqueline Archibald (sitting in the tyre) swung from a tree. Others chose to make clay models and could be seen walking proudly

away with their efforts. Gymnastic equipment and a rope bridge provided a challenge for the active, while other enthralled youngsters watched Rastus Rabbit, or police dogs leaping through a flaming hoop. Many families visited the displays and activities during the lunch hours. By 2.30 p.m. busy artists had painted their way through 500 sheets of paper and the organisers had to set off for another load of clay. Interest showed no sign of waning. “There is an abvious need for this type of thing,” said a member of the Playgrounds Advisory Committee. Similar activities could be organised for children in suburban areas without much expense, she said.