Residents' fun day is a great success

The sun may not have made an appearance but around 100 families had a great time at Merlin Housing Society’s first fun day.

Organised by the Asset Management Team the event was a chance for residents to find out more about the homes improvement programme and to raise any issues with Merlin staff.

But it was also a day for the families. Youngsters were entertained by balloon modeller Lord Geoffrey, could have their faces painted and even hold a bird of prey. And there were prizes on offer at the fairground-themed games including tin can alley, hook a duck, and hoopla.

There were also bouncy castles and inflatable sumo wrestling, animals from Old Down Country Park, bingo and a visit from the fire brigade.

And despite the grey skies and occasional rain shower, visitors came away from the event with big smiles on their faces. Jill Iles from Staple Hill said: “I took the day off work to come here, mainly for the kids as it gives them something to do. It’s good to see Merlin staff looking smart and being helpful.”

Mrs Saunders from Chipping Sodbury, added: “It’s a good way of doing things. I’ve been to these days before and will come again.”

Head of Property Services Mark Haines said he was delighted the day was such a success.

“Following feedback we received from everyone who came along I have no doubt that a similar event will take place again sometime in the future,” he said. “This is an excellent way of engaging and communicating with residents and is a fun way for obtaining feedback from residents about how they think we’re doing.”

The event was supported by Merlin’s decent homes programme partners Rok and Connaught, gas servicing contractor PH Jones, cyclical works firm Mitie, asbestos removal company Shield, renewable energy provider Solaheat UK Ltd and housing industry consultants Impart Links.