Southampton pub unveils new play area
The Gamekeeper pub, near Woodlands in Southampton, has said it is ready to welcome children the new play area.
A garden area at the pub has been refurbished to home the play area, with a view to help entertain local children as well as support their physical and mental health through exercise.
Warm welcome
Licensee of the Gamekeeper, Kerry Wolfe, realised there was a need for this vital local service as there are few activities for younger children to do in the village and a large number of families in the area.
Wolfe said: “As the weather is getting warmer the play area will offer children the opportunity to exercise in a safe environment.
“We wanted to offer this service to help families as there really is nothing for them in the local area. We look forward to offering everyone a warm welcome.”
Catering for children up to the age of 12, the area includes a slide and a fireman pole with the addition of a new outdoor area at the pub where parents can sit for a coffee to socialise and keep an eye on the little ones.
Bring people together
The play area was opened with support and a Community Services Fund grant from Pub is The Hub, the not-for-profit organisation that helps pubs to diversify and provide essential local services.
Pub is The Hub regional advisor Reg Clarke said: “The Gamekeeper is really at the heart of Woodlands.
“This play area will not only bring children together but also their wider families and members of the community.
“Being able to bring people together by giving the children something to do while offering the parents time to socialise is a great way to overcome social isolation.”
