THE sun never shines on every summer day during the long school holidays so groups in Furness have been ready to step in with fun activities through the decades.

Art and craft sessions, tennis and even five-legged races have all proved popular with energetic youngsters with time on their hands.

An article in The Mail on Friday, September 3 in 1999, noted: “Youngsters crammed in some last minute painting practice this week before schools started back.

“Children showed off their brush strokes during Barrow Island Community Centre’s Junior Summer Workshop sessions.

“The workshops have been held throughout the summer holidays to stop kids getting bored.

“And the youngsters were rewarded for their efforts with certificates presented at the community centre by organiser Teresa Linton and helper Cheryl Dickinson.”

Ulverston had plenty of activities on offer for children 25 years ago.

The Mail, on Saturday, August 20 in 1994, noted: “A summer holiday playscheme for youngsters reaches a climax at Dale Street Community Centre on Friday with a family fun day between 1pm and 4pm.

“Scores of children have enjoyed three separate playschemes held for five to 11-year-olds during the school holidays and they will be taking part along with mums and dads, brothers and sisters.

“Under the guidance of volunteer organisers Lynn Elliott and Dawn Wright, from Ulverston and Catherine Carr, from Kirkby, plus a team of helpers, Ulverston youngsters have enjoyed a terrific range of fun activities.

“On Friday the fun continues with a game of Treasure Island, a bouncy castle, mini sports, Mrs Marr’s magnetic fishing game and roll-a-penny as well as a white elephant stall, cake stall, raffle and refreshments.

“Special clown posters designed by 10-year-old Melanie Bowen, from the Honeypot, are going up in Ulverston to publicise the fun day.”

The summer events received cash from the Ulverston and Low Furness Neighbourhood Forum.

Volunteer Catherine Carr said: “It’s been a real success and we are hoping to hold a similar event during the Christmas holidays.”

Another venue supplying fun for children 25 years ago was Barrow’s Forum 28 arts centre.

Summer Funtime events, which included painting, crafts and making kites, were held during August 1994.