Tree climbing, crate stacking, zipwire and S’mores
Families of the West Midlands Police Benevolent Fund gathered for two thrilling days this summer for the annual ‘A Day to Remember’ event.
The event is the brainchild of Chairman John Williams who wanted to bring members together and give a little something back to those who subscribe monthly to our police charity.
“This year’s adventure day was extra special”, explains John. “After months of lockdown and then Covid restrictions, it was great to finally welcome families back to Blackwell Court again.”
Blackwell Court Adventure is a non-profit organisation offering over 20 indoor and outdoor activities, set in 50 acres of beautiful parkland and has been the home of our family days for the past two years.
“Despite the uncertainty of Covid-19 earlier in the year, we took the decision to book our family events for 25 and 26 August. It proved to be the right decision and a popular one too as we were overwhelmed with interest from members”, added John.
Back in May, members were invited to express their interest by entering a ballot. Over 300 families got in touch to say they would like to attend. A total of 168 places were subsequently offered to members and the cost of the two adventure days was paid for by the Fund.
It was an early start on both days, which included a ‘meet and greet’ from the Ben Fund’s General Manager, Steve Newbury followed by a short safety briefing by the Blackwell staff.
Then it was straight into the day’s activities which included; crate stacking, archery, zip wire and tree climbing.
“Our intention was to bring back a bit of normality after the challenges we all faced last year, and most importantly offer a great family experience. We had all ages and abilities attend over the two days and it was so nice to see everyone having such a great time”, explained Steve.
“There was lots of laughter during the two days and this was captured perfectly by photographer, Graham. The S’mores and ice-creams, we treated members and their children to at the end of the day, were also a big hit. We received lots of lovely feedback, including this wonderful letter of thanks for 9-year-old Oliver.
“The event would not have been possible without the tremendous efforts of so many people”, added John Williams.
“Thanks to the staff at Blackwell Adventure for providing a great programme of activities. A massive thank you to serving officer and Ben Fund Operations Committee member, Kay Bargewell for her amazing efforts again this year and to her merry band of helpers. A big thanks to Graham Beddingfield for capturing the day so well and providing a wonderful album of fantastic photos for families to remember the day. Special thanks to John Butcher BEM, Force Multi-Faith Lead Chaplain for joining us too.
Finally, thank you to all the families who attended over the two days, for joining in, being great sports and for making the day a wonderful success.
We are pleased to announce that we will be doing it all over again next year. Further details about the events will be available in the new year on our website.
If you would like to know more about West Midlands Police Benevolent Fund including how to join, visit www.wmpben.co.uk or contact West Midlands Police Benevolent Fund either by email info@wmpben.co.uk or call the office on 0121 752 4919.
