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Crowds flock to Sheringham BeachLife mission

Sheringham BeachLife funday 402013: The BeachLife activity outreach for children and young people on Sheringham sea-front last week attracted over 200 children and young people, in a week of glorious weather. Tony Rothe reports.

 
Planning for the event started last autumn, following the success of last year’s mission. BeachLife was organised by the churches in Sheringham, and run by an army of over 50 volunteers, mainly from Sheringham churches, but joined by helpers from as far afield as County Durham. The event was supported by Scripture Union.
 
The activities kicked off each day with the “Beach Special”, where all ages came together at the cliff-top marquee on The Leas for music, games, drama and fun, and to introduce the day’s theme, which was one of the miracles of Jesus each day. Guest appearances from the Funky Chicken, the Gorilla, and “Mrs Viennetta” with her bizarre ice-creams added to the frolics. The children and young people then split into age-groups for their “Going Deeper” sessions to explore that day’s theme in more depth before breaking for lunch.
 
Sheringham BeachLife GladiatorThe afternoons saw an “egg parachute” challenge, micro-raft racing, mini-Olympics, and the special appearance of Christian illusionist Steve Price, who enthralled the crowds with his skill as well as delivering a gospel message. There was a circus-themed afternoon with barbecue on the last day, and the Lees resounded with laughter as over 150 children and young people and their families enjoyed circus activities, a gladiator challenge, (pictured left), space-hoppers, and two bouncy castles.
 
Evening activities for over-8’s included a treasure hunt, Laser-quest and beach sports, putting, and a “Sheropoly” trail around the town, all of which were well attended.
 
“BeachLife has been another huge success, helped by the glorious weather this year” said Rev Pete Skivington, co-ordinator of the event. “We had record numbers of children and young people attending, who had loads of fun whilst finding out more about God. Feedback has been extremely positive, with many people asking when next year’s BeachLife would be, so that they can plan their holidays in Sheringham. And it has also strengthened the links between the churches in Sheringham, as we have needed to work as a team to make this happen.”
 
Next year’s outreach will run from Tuesday 26 to Friday 29 August 2014. But Sheringham youngsters will not have to wait until next summer to continue the fun, as the team are already planning for another “BeachLife Extra” day in February next year. 
 
Visit www.sheringhambeachlife.co.uk  for more information about the event.

 For more information about next year’s BeachLife contact Peter Skivington at youth@sheringhambaptistchurch.co.uk or phone 07919415554.

Sheringham BeachLife crowds 38
 
 

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