The popular programme, arranged and staffed by the City of Edinburgh Council’s Lifelong Learning Services, runs for three weeks of the summer holidays in the Queensferry area and provides opportunities for young people (age 11+) to take part in a wide variety of free events, thanks to sponsors such as Taylor Wimpey East Scotland, INEOS and the Almond Neighbourhood Network.

Also, thanks to Queensferry Community Association and Kirkliston Community Centre for receiving and managing the donated funds.

This year, the programme will run Monday to Thursday each week with the opportunity for young people to enjoy activities such as ceramic painting, graffiti art and baking, with a series of well-being classes that include swimming, dodgeball, a dance workshop, gym sessions and various Parklife outdoor activities.

For the adventurous, there’s also paddle-boarding and kayaking at Port Edgar Watersports, while the family can all get together for an outdoor movie night in Hawthorn Bank Walled Garden.

There’s also a boat trip on the Maid of the Forth to look forward to, as well as an outdoor Silent Disco in Hawthorn Bank Walled Garden to wrap things up on Thursday 27 July 2023.

Commenting on the support that it has received from Taylor Wimpey East Scotland, Mary Giblett, chair of Queensferry Community Association said: “We are delighted and extremely grateful for the support that we have received from Taylor Wimpey East Scotland. We can’t thank them enough for their generous donation of £1,000 which will go towards the delivery of a free programme of summer fun for our young people to really enjoy during their break from school.“

Kirsty McGill, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey East Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Queensferry’s Summer Fun programme in this way and we hope that as many young people as possible take the opportunity to get involved, perhaps try something new but most importantly have fun during this summer holiday.

“What is also especially striking about the choice of activities and trips that are available, is just how much is on the doorstep of our development at Hawthorn Gardens which is a testament to why it’s such a popular place to call home for a wide range of buyers looking to call South Queensferry home.

“Being able to work with local organisations such as Queensferry Community Association means a great deal to us and it’s great to know that we are helping to make a difference within the local communities where we build.”

Cllr Joan Griffith, Education, Children and Families convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This is a great example of collaborative working in our local community organised and run by the youth and children’s work team. Being able to offer a free programme which breaks down barriers and makes opportunities accessible to all. Our local young people will have opportunities for exciting challenges, creative opportunities, and social experiences, to give them that extra support, increased confidence and continuity over the long holiday period.”