Littlehampton fun day almost cut as lightning strikes

A combination of lashing rain, thunder and lightning had threatened to axe the Mewsbrook Park Family Fun Day, on Saturday (June 7) before it even began.

However, event organisers took the bold choice to brave the atrocious conditions in the hope of clearer skies.

And it was a move that paid off, with the sun breaking through minutes after the festivities started, producing one of the ‘greatest fundraisers’ at the park yet.

David Chace, owner of the park’s café, arranged the event, which was supporting Home-start Arun.

He said: “It was touch and go. Half the stuff was set up and then we had that almighty downpour in the morning. Bridget, from Home-start, said we should have the day cancelled. But I knew it was just the 10am showers come early.

“It was really lucky we held out and waited for the rain to pass because once it did, we had a beautiful day.”

David estimated that more than 1,000 people visited the park throughout the day, helping to raise an estimated £500 for Home-start Arun.

And there was plenty for the revellers to get their teeth stuck into, from enormous bouncy castles and charity stalls to a number of live performances and displays.

Taking to the stage for this year’s event included Zumba with Sally, who led an energetic dance session, and Worthing teen singing trio The Luvettes.

David added: “We had the White Meadows school choir singing, who were absolutely stunning.

“I mean, I knew they would be good but I didn’t realise they would be that good.

“They really brought the ‘wow factor’ to the day.”

The children performed a medley of five songs on the performance stage.

But it wasn’t just the youngsters from White Meadows who took centre stage on the day.

Other children from across the town slipped into wacky outfits to take part in the fancy dress competition.

There was everything from Fireman Sam, and a Power Ranger to a deadly Dalek and even a blackberry.

David said his charity days, which have been running for three years, have raised more than £4,000 for local good causes. His next event is on August 3.