Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset Mr Angus Campbell with John Hanrahan, Centre Manager
“I commend the people who are involved with this new Soft Play Group,” said the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Mr Angus Campbell, when he officially opened the group at the Heatherlands Centre in Ferndown on 13 March. “it’s a wonderful facility for the community.”
He added, “The reputation of John Hanrahan and his helpers goes before them. We are very well aware of the work done here by a combination of remarkable personalities. The expansion into soft play is magnificent.”
He and other dignitaries toured the Soft Play Group consisting of a mother and baby area, soft play section, assault course and relaxation area with tables and chairs for adults and children.
A dozen or so children jumped, crawled, slid and bounced as they continually discovered new things to do at the Soft Play Group.
Sarah Stickley with her 18 month old son Jack said, “It’s brilliant, we come every week.”
Judy who takes Alek, also 18 months old, added, “Alek loves it. We come every week.”
Mother of 21 month old Ethan said, “Ethan likes to come every week. It’s good for him and something to do.” She added that it tired him out. “He usually falls asleep on the way home,” she said.
And James Goldsmith from West Moors with two-year-old Delilah added, “If my wife can’t make it, I bring Delilah.” He said they found out about the group from Tuesday Toddlers at Heatherlands.
The Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Pauline Reynolds added, “It’s absolutely brilliant. There is a wonderful set of children and parents all enjoying themselves. The play equipment is very colourful and a credit to all the work that has been put in to make it a success.”
The Soft Play Group runs every Thursday morning from 10am-11.30am and the equipment is ideal for pre-school children and the under 7s.
Led by John Hanrahan the Centre Manager and Lisa Guy it costs £2.50 for an adult and child, with £1 for extra children. The price includes hot or cold drinks.
Lisa said, “We usually have between 18-20 children, but there is space for more.“
Anyone interested should contact John on 01202 861706. Bring soft shoes or slippers.
Dignitaries pose with organiser, mums and tots for a photograph
