FINDING the perfect activity to keep the children suitably entertained over the summer break is a difficult task for any parent.

But North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson came to the rescue at the weekend with a pop-up summer activities fair in which kids and grown-ups could take a look at what was on offer to keep their kiddies from getting bored.

Held at the Orbital Centre, just a stone’s throw from Justin’s office, representatives from various groups took questions and handed out brochures to interested shoppers.

Justin Tomlinson, who had organised the fair, said: “I’m really excited about today’s event. With the summer holidays fast approaching, we thought it would be a great idea to invite along a lot of different clubs and organisations who provide activities for the kids throughout the holidays.

“It’s great to see so many children interested and keen to sign up for different things.”

Among the organisations were Abbey Meads Football Club, a community club always on the hunt for Swindon’s next Lionel Messi; popular children’s activity hangout Roves Farm; representatives from the library promoting the summer reading challenge and thespians from the Wyvern Theatre encouraging kids to get involved with their various youth projects, as well as many more.

Clint Ricketts, one of the secretaries of Abbey Meads FC, was thrilled to have been given the chance to recruit a few more keen footballers.

He said: “We’re looking for more children who want to get involved with grassroots football. We will also welcome any volunteers if they are qualified, or wish to qualify, as coaches.

“We are a volunteer-run family club and our aim is to get children off the streets and onto the pitch playing football.”

As parents and kids strolled around the stalls, making the most of the glorious sunshine, they certainly seemed interested in what was on offer.

Janet Mayfield, 34, and son Oliver, 8, had come away with leaflets and brochures from a few different places.

Janet said: “I think something like this is a really good idea and it takes away some of the worry about how they can be entertained over the holidays.

“He seems very interested in Draycott Sports Camp and we’ll probably be making a few trips to Roves Farm if the weather stays nice.”