A new summer camp in Basingstoke is desperately searching for sponsors to help follow on from its first year success.
The Sports Xtra summer camp kicked off on August 1 and ran through until August 5 at Aldworth Science College. The one-week camp takes on children from South Ham, Hatch Warren, and Beggarwood from the ages of five to 14-years-old.
Up to 50 youngsters get a chance to take part in sports and adventure activities, including the chance to be “a spy for a day”.
Mark Rowland, from Sports Xtra said: “It’s a good course because it’s all a bit different. We do traditional sports, but then some that are definitely not traditional."
Aldworth Science College deputy head teacher, Terry Lynch said the week gives youngsters a chance to try their hands at new things. But he said that if they can not find sponsors for next year, the course will have to be axed.
“This is the first time we have run a course like this in the area and we have a really good response from parents,” he said. “But for next time we need a sponsor. There used to be county and Government grants giving the money for summer activities, but this no longer exists."
This year’s course is jointly funded by Aldworth Science College and Hampshire County Council extended services and run by the LCP (local children’s partnership). Mr Lynch said: “This is one of the poorest areas in Hampshire, and Basingstoke. What we are doing is creating a opportunity for youngsters to come together with no social divide.
“It is all creating social cohesion and getting people to come together. It has been very popular and I hope it can continue into the future.”
If anyone is able to support the summer camps, contact Mr Lynch on 01256 322691.
