A popular free summer camp is opening its doors again this year.

The Summerzone children's summer project has been running at the Harmony Youth Project in a former mill in Wordsworth street, Halliwell, now a youth and media centre, for the last 19 years.

It is opening its doors to five to 18-year-olds this week, but due to coronavirus restrictions, is only able to offer 15 places a day on its summer camp.

Activities on offer include workshops in music production, nail art and photography. 

Project co-ordinator Charliee Barratt explained: “There is a lack of children’s activities this year because of the pandemic but we wanted to make sure that children had some really enjoyable activities over the school holidays.

 “Summerzone would be ideal for children from families with low incomes from Halliwell and the surrounding area and is one of the most popular events we run throughout the year.”

The scheme runs from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 3pm and offers competitions in pool, table tennis and table football. There are also big screen movies and Xbox, circuit training, indoor ball games and karaoke.

There are workshops in music production, DJ-aying, photography, hip-hop, art, nail art and fitness. There is also a camera club a video club a well-equipped recording studio and the children go to  outdoor events and on field trips.

Harmony is a centre of excellence in music and there is music production tutoring with professional producers and live instrument tuition including guitar, piano, drums and percussion.

“Summerzone stops youngsters from being bored and out on the streets and offers them social skills, inter-action and fun,” added Charlie.

“Often, they learn new skills which spark an interest which could be developed further. And it all takes place in a structured, safe environment with lots of positive reinforcement  and role models.”

To book a place, ring 01204 496161 or email admin_harmony@hotmail.com