A CHILDREN’S centre in Bournemouth has showcased its work with a day of family fun.

Dozens of people turned up to Townsend Children’s Centre, Jewell Road, for its summer holiday celebration on Monday, which included activities for children, a barbecue and family entertainment.

Young families filled the large garden area, where they enjoyed dance routines and music from local performers Positiv Projects.

Children's services manager Carole Banton hailed the event a success, saying it had been a good opportunity to engage with parents and demonstrate the excellent work SureStart centres do in the community.

“It was a real success. There were families that came who had never been before. It was a really vibrant atmosphere.”

As well as face painting and other fun for youngsters to enjoy, there were also stalls offering information and help.

These included stands manned by pre-employment companies Prospects and Best Training, which offered advice to those seeking work, including guidance on writing CV’s and making job applications.

There was also a stand promoting the work the centre does to encourage healthy eating, with tips on portion sizes and sensible food habits.

The centre offers a wide range of activities and services for families with children aged up to five years old.

The centre encourages families to use its garden at the weekends and offers children's activities from the Island Annexe which is situated close to the main building.