THOUSANDS of sessions have been booked on a scheme helping children to stay active and fed this summer.
The Staffordshire Holidays and Food (HAF) programme has already seen more than 40,000 bookings – a 68% increase on the same time last year.
The scheme provides free holiday activities and meals for children who receive benefit-related free school meals.
Eligible youngsters can book up to 16 free sessions over the summer, with a wide variety of activities available, including archery, kayaking, circus skills, cookery, crafts and sports.
Nick Lakin, cabinet member for children and young people at Staffordshire County Council, said:
"The huge increase in bookings shows just how valuable these activities are for Staffordshire families.
"The sessions see children building confidence, learning new skills and making friends, while parents have the reassurance that their children are active and get a healthy meal while enjoying their summer holidays.
"It's fantastic to see so many young people taking part."
The HAF programme is funded by the Department for Education and aims to support children and families during the school holidays.
Families can explore the full range of activities and book places online.
