A popular family-friendly event presented by Horsham churches is returning on February 23 in a vibrant, new format.

Operation 19:14 committee member Lucy McKinnon said organisers expected up to 500 children to attend the free event, which will be on a Friday evening at Sawyer Park, Horsham, for the first time.

“Given things have changed now, we always used to have it on a Sunday afternoon – we’ll just see what happens,” she said.

Ms McKinnon said the event would include a colour run this year. 

“Colour runs are fun, colourful events for all ages and abilities,” she said.

“Ours will be mainly towards the back of the soundshell and will be more of a course with some obstacle elements.”

Ms McKinnon said attendees would be treated to a performance from a children’s entertainer, with other activities and amenities available during the three-hour event.  

“While the colour run is happening, we will have train rides, different foods such as fruit kebabs, coffee and cake, as well as inflatable games,” she said. 

“Every child who comes to the event will receive an activities pass – every pass has a lucky number on it and if your number is chosen, there is an annual family pass to Halls Gap Zoo and tickets to Horsham Arts Council’s Shrek production as prizes.”

Ms McKinnon said organisers endeavoured to promote a message of inclusion through the annual event.

“Our committee is made up of people from all of the Horsham churches, with the vision to provide a free, all-inclusive family event,” she said.

Ms McKinnon said the event was put on at no cost to families in order to encourage as many people as possible to attend and to ensure parents would not have to say no to their children. 

People can visit the event’s Facebook page Operation 19:14 for more information. 

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