More than 240 Thamesmead residents took part in Trust Thamesmead’s October Half-term Boredom Busters, a programme of activities that took place Monday 29 October-Friday 2 November.

Offering something for everyone aged 5-19, The Link Thamesmead and Sporting Club Thamesmead hosted a week-long football course, gym sessions, digital photography, motor mechanics, drama, street dance and cookery classes, as well as a trip to Eagle Heights, with a Halloween party in partnership with Gallions Housing Association, to be held this evening, which around 200 residents are expected to attend.

The Link Thamesmead’s Deputy Manager, Shell Thorne said: “Children and young people have engaged in fun and educational workshops all week where they have developed their skills and knowledge, which we hope they enjoyed and encourage them to attend The Link Thamesmead and Sporting Club Thamesmead again.”

Talking about the cookery course, 13 year old, Kwake Darko, said: “I like cooking and would like to take up cookery lessons to show me how to make chicken soup and roast dinners.”

Archway Project’s, Operations Manager, Neil Monaghan said: “Cooking is a bit part of what we do at Archway. When we aren’t throwing specific cookery classes, those who take part in our motorcycle workshops, cook their lunch from scratch every day and learn the importance of ingredients and fresh food.”

Ten-year-old Marie Monnet, who took part in Theatre Street Performing Art’s drama workshop at The Link Thamesmead, said: “The drama workshop was brilliant. We went through different news cuttings and then chose a topic – hurricane Sandy – which we acted out. It was really fun and The Studio it was based in is fantastic and the mirrors are beautiful.”

Talking about her perception of The Link, Marie said: “It is a big, spacious place. I travel on the road above The Link every day on the bus but I thought it was just a small community centre being built. I can’t believe what I have seen.”

Waiting in reception for her child to finish the Street Dance workshop, Thamesmead resident, Sandy White told us: “The programme of activities was jam-packed. I signed my daughter up to four activities in total and think The Link is absolutely brilliant! The coffee in the café is delicious and the facilities and surroundings are inspiring. You’ve got to see it to believe it!”

Eight year old, Coree Layea who took part in the Street Dance workshop said: “The class was awesome. We learnt lots of puzzling moves and I like to be challenged.”

Sporting Club Thamesmead’s Centre Manager said: “This is the second school holiday when Sporting Club Thamesmead has managed to put on sports activities for young people. A lot of those who took part in the summer signed-up for this week’s course and everyone has really enjoyed themselves.”

Trust Thamesmead’s Marketing & Communications Officer and Lead Marketing Officer for The Link Thamesmead, Julia Hickson said: “October half-term gave the children of Thamesmead an insight into what both The Link Thamesmead and Sporting Club Thamesmead can offer.

“The fact we have these two, brand new, state-of-the-art community facilities in Thamesmead is one thing, what is offered inside them is another. I echo Sandy – you have to see them to believe them!”