Dozens descended on Dunorlan Park in Tunbridge Wells last month for Demelza’s first-ever Little Warrior event. 

Fun and frolics were had, friends made and funds raised as families took part in Demelza’s inaugural Little Warrior event in Dunorlan Park, Tunbridge Wells on Sunday 12 June.

The challenge event featured several zones, each representing a service that Demelza offers, including:

- A hydro zone representing the hydrotherapy pool

- A musical instrument lucky dip representing the music therapy

- A Demelza art board representing art therapy

- A family space hopper race with photographer for memory making services

- A ball pool representing our sensory play.

Each zone also had an accessible option for wheelchair and pushchair users.

 

Ken, 79 from Sevenoaks, took on the challenge with his son Adam, 41 and grandsons four-year-old Raife, from Wrotham and big brother Hugo, nine.

 

Ken said: “I’ve been really looking forward to doing this event with my grandsons; in fact, I couldn’t wait for it. It’s been great fun; the space hoppers took me back to the 50s! We loved it so much we went around twice. I support Demelza by playing the Lottery but it’s been great taking part in an event too.”

Participants began with an energetic warm up and were encouraged by The Body Coaches. Entertainment was provided along the way by the Rock Choir with event sponsors, Kent Alliance, taking part and volunteering on the day.

Demelza service user Harry took part in the even alongside his eight-year-old twin brother Thomas, big brother James, 12, mum Juanita and dad Gary.

Juanita, said: “It was great fun; the boys loved getting mummy wet! It’s so lovely to have something inclusive and to see other Demelza families here. Harry has raised over £300.” 

Beth Harris, Senior Healthcare Assistant at Demelza, took on the challenge herself, completing the course alongside eight-year-old Jensen who is a good friend of Harry’s.

Beth said: “Jensen and Harry’s faces light up when they see each other. You don’t have to be able to speak to be best friends. There’s no prejudice; just love.”

With over 500 supporters taking on the challenge, Demelza raised £15,000 which will go towards funding the services that are a lifeline to over 600 children, young people and families throughout the south east.

Katherine Cordrey, Head of Community and Events at Demelza, said: “A huge thank you to everyone who came to our first Little Warrior event in Tunbridge Wells– everyone had a great day and there were smiles all round.”