As well as entry to the attraction, the children were provided with a packed lunch and money for an ice‑cream. The many carers accompanying the children were allowed free entry by the park and also provided with a packed lunch.

This year the 130 children from four local schools joined with another 600 children from schools in Essex, Hertfordshire and North-east London, who were also supported by their local Rotary clubs.

Though not now allowed to transport or have sole charge of any children, most supporting Rotary clubs provided volunteers to help out on the day, accompanying carers and teachers with the children, co-ordinating lunchtime arrangements, and assisting where required.

The weather was kind, the threatened showers not happening until after the journey back started, and many expressions of gratitude were expressed by both children and their carers.

Rotarian Tony Harvey of
Loughton & Buckhurst Hill Rotary Clubs
provides waiter service
as lunch-time gets under way.

From right to left:
Jim Keir (Harlow); Graham O'Malley and John Eyre (Epping Forest); Tony Harvey (Loughton & Buckhurst Hill) – hiding at the back; Kevin Pitt (Harlow Tye); Phil Hill (Harlow) and Mike Hayter (Harlow Tye), enjoying their own lunch after a busy morning!