MORE than 2,400 children across the Cotswold District benefitted from a free holiday activity and food programme this summer.

This year marked the third anniversary of the Holiday Activity and Food Programme which gives eligible children access to free activities during the school holidays and provides food hampers to support families.

This programme is offered to children in reception up to year 11 who receive benefits-related free school meals. 

During the summer holiday, 2,439 children enjoyed a range of activities such as horse riding, holiday camps, crafts, adventure sports at the Cotswold Water Park and tickets to Cotswold Falconry.

In addition, 1,773 free meals were given out to support families across the district.

Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, CDC cabinet member for health, leisure and culture, said: “As a council, we understand the challenges that families often face during the holiday season particularly with the cost of living crisis. 

"We are so pleased that these free activities have been able to provide some much needed relief.

“Once again it was great to see such a successful programme with so many families taking part in activities all across the district!

"There was such a wide variety of activities on offer and I’m pleased they were well attended by families.” 

Ben Ward, from World Jungle, said: “It was fantastic to have so many things available for children and young people to get involved in over the summer in the Cotswold, from circus skills and forest school to sports camps and play day celebrations. 

"Seeing how everyone worked together from all walks of life, industry and business, it just shows what we can do when we work together.”