Parks across Chelmsford sprang into life at Easter with the sounds of children at Play in the Park, a programme of free events led by Chelmsford City Council.

Comments from parents were very positive, with unprecedented numbers of children joining in, and the authority is now gearing up for a series of summer holiday sessions.

Playworkers and volunteers, intensively trained by the Council, provided quality sports and activities to 873 children aged 3-11 years over the two-week Easter period.

This is over 200 more than last year.

Some of the most popular sessions featured parkour, cycle awareness, soft play and an 'inflatable disco dome', with local Children's Centres also joining in to cater for younger children.

The busiest workshop attracted almost 100 local youngsters, an unprecedented number of attendees for an Easter session.

Kathrine, a mum who brought her children along to a session in Springfield, said in feedback: "I'm always very impressed by the provision and the range of activities to suit all ages. It's run by excellent staff, who are fantastic with the children."

Arthur, who visited Play in the Park at Great Baddow with his son, added: "The scheme workers are always friendly and professional, a credit to themselves."

Councillor Julia Jeapes, Cabinet Member for Leisure, agrees: "Chelmsford City Council is very proud of our Play in the Park staff, who provide a fantastic environment for children to have fun and explore safely.

"Outdoor spaces are there for everyone to enjoy, especially children who are discovering the joy of playing in natural surroundings.

"As word spreads, I am not surprised that these sessions are becoming phenomenally popular."

The Council expects Summer 2016 to be the busiest yet and are providing over 80 sessions to choose from.

Full details of the summer programme will be announced in June, so keep an eye on the website at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/play.

In the meantime, you can stay updated by following the 'Playchelmsford' Facebook page.