Masbro Centre smashes records at family fun day

The Masbro Centre's family summer party smashed all records as over a 1000 people (double the number predicted) attended an afternoon of memorable children’s entertainment on Friday 19th August. I was there with kids in tow and I can tell you they have rarely had that much fun under one roof.

Sadly no other journalists turned up, sending only a photographer with an incredibly large camera that scared the kids - so bear that in mind when you read other accounts...because they weren't actually there!

But the Centre was heaving at the seams to cater for a bumper crowd which was estimated at 1100 people. The demand for face painting and balloons had volunteers and the children’s entertainer working non stop throughout the afternoon. The party food, cake stall and Caribbean food sold out and cold drinks and smoothies sales went through the roof.

Highlights of an unforgettable afternoon included the Masbro has got talent competition won by a family team of 5 children who had practiced for days beforehand to win the first prize of £40 of Vue cinema tickets and £30 WH Smith vouchers. It was a hard fought contest compered by dance tutor Sharon Patten from SP Performing Arts.

The hula hoop competition went down to the wire with four winners in a very high class field. The competition was organised by Philippa Berridge fresh from her success at the Bush Festival. Five lucky winners won the under fives competition. Judging the event was Hope Hanlan and Avonmore and Brook Green Councillor Robert Iggulden Board Members of the Urban Partnership Group who run the Masbro Centre. Every child was a winner in an afternoon of music and fun. Special thanks to DJ’s Max Wallace Masbro Facilities Manager and Ryan Wilson 12 years old who spun an eclectic mix of young and old tunes throughout the afternoon. Official photographers Franco Chen and Clint Heine were joined by the local press, parents and carers looking to capture the events of a memorable day.

Over 40 volunteers and staff helped run the event which exceeded all expectations. By 3pm it was standing room only as the crowds continued to flock to the Masbro Centre. With a glorious sunny day, extensive publicity including door to door flyers and helped by our friends on social networking sites this was always going to be the summer party in the Borough not to be missed.

Andy Sharpe Chief Executive of Masbro Centre had this to say:

"We are absolutely delighted with the turnout of over a 1000 people which has smashed all records for this event. The support of local families for the Masbro Centre is amazing. We are already planning next year’s summer party which will be held on Friday 17th August. 2012.”

 Good luck to them - they help to make Shepherd's Bush a much much better place.