Council’s summer fun programme’s ongoing success

The annual ‘Summer Fun Programme’ attracted increased numbers this year with 6,461 participants, a rise of 517 on 2013, councillors have heard.

The 2014 package, put together by Ballymena Borough Council, offered 21 different events and 71 courses which ran from July 1 to August 29, when the largest increase in numbers was created by interest in gymnastics, golf at Galgorm and the Summertime Special - reduced rates for activities at the Seven Towers Leisure Centre.

It was reported to a Council committee last week that the latter’s success “reflects the current economic climate where there is a high demand for reduced rates”.

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The programme included many events and activities that had proved popular in 2013 including zumba for kids, multi-sports, golf and gymnastics but also brought new offerings in the form of Jujitsu, teen fitness and GAA Cul Camp.

Substantial marketing was carried out in the run up to its delivery including the distribution of 6,000 information leaflets to schools, community centres, sports and youth associations, councillors were told.

They were also informed that any future ‘Summer Fun’, held once the Mid & East Antrim Council comes into operation next April, will take account of similar programmes within Larne and Carrickfergus.

In the meantime, “Ballymena area Council officers will continue to seek out new activities which are suitable for the Programme and develop further involvement with local clubs”, the committee was assured.