MORE children and young people will benefit from free activities and nutritious food this summer as the popular Holiday Food and Fun programme is expanded.

Additional funding from the Department for Education will enable the council’s Holiday Food and Fun scheme to run an extra 2,000 activity sessions in East Sussex during the summer school holidays.

During July and August more than 80 providers will be offering a range of fun activities and nutritious food to children who receive benefits-related free school meals. A total of 27,000 sessions will take place at 144 sites across the county.

Activities available include arts and crafts, circus skills, musical theatre, sport and fitness, dance, cooking, and puppet workshops.

Councillor Bob Bowdler, lead member for children and families, said: “Last summer’s DfE funded Holiday Food and Fun scheme was hugely successful, with over 3,600 young people attending sessions county wide.

“For some parents, the school holidays can be difficult because of increased costs, such as food and childcare, and reduced incomes.

“I am delighted we are able to run more clubs during the upcoming summer holidays, providing activities and wholesome food for around 4,000 youngsters, ensuring they receive a nutritious meal and enjoy their break from school while taking part in healthy activities and having fun.”

Free places are still available for eligible children, but spaces are limited and parents and carers are encouraged to book as soon as possible.

People can book places or find out more about the summer scheme including eligibility, the locations and full details of all the holiday clubs, at eastsussex.gov.uk/holidayactivities