MELKSHAM Police held their first-ever fun family evening at the Assembly Hall to connect with the local community and inspire the younger generation.
The event, which took place on Friday 29th November, gave families the opportunity to meet the town’s police team, including the Swift Programme Team and Youth Offending Team. Attendees could also learn more about local groups, clubs and organisations.
There was free bike marking and registration, interactive attractions for all, as well as a beer goggles activity, allowing children to see how alcohol affects movement.
Sergeant Gemma Rutter said, “A huge thank you to all those who gave up their time to make this event happen, from Snap Fitness, Melksham Rugby Team, Spurgeon’s, 4Youth, Youth for Christ (who make the best hot chocolate), the public health board, our police cadets, Crimestoppers, the Neighbourhood Harm Reduction Unit, and the Youth Offending Team. Also, thank you to the schools for promoting this event.
“We bike-marked over ten bikes at the event, chatted to some lovely families, and shared ideas on how we can make Melksham safe, fun, and inspiring for future generations.
“This started as a small idea to reach out to all the children in town, not just those who come to our attention for their behaviour. The partner agencies and volunteers not only responded to my emails but also offered ways to support the event and gave up their time to make it a success. It has been great to see families coming in to discover what the town has to offer. The Neighbourhood Team differs from the response teams covering Melksham as we focus on supporting the community. It was wonderful to see children leaving the event considering joining the rugby club and the local gym.”
