Thank you so much to everyone who joined us for our community event with gargsanimalencounters A very considerate and knowledgeable animal handler who spent the day teaching us all about a variety of animals. And Thank You as always, to our incredible team of staff, volunteers and young leaders who all make such a difference! Thank you to Active Essex Foundation and EALC who have very kindly supported us with funding for our summer program. This funding has enabled us to provide this event completely free of charge, with an incredible 364 people attending today. It was a pleasure to meet so many new people from the community, with many telling us how expensive the holidays are, especially with multiple children, and how much they appreciate being able to have a fun, relaxed and interesting day with their friends, family and community and not have to worry about the cost. It was fantastic to see so many children making new friends and playing together and sharing in the excitement of meeting different animals. We also received £81.25 in donations today and would like to say a huge thank you to those who kindly donated. We never turn away young people or families due to finances and are very aware how difficult things are for some. We genuinely appreciate every penny, and this money will go directly towards activities for young people.