Benhill Fun Day, which took place on Saturday 26th September 2009, originally began as a project, however this was extended to a fun day as interest among residents grew.
Residents wanted to add some colourful plants to the neglected raised flower beds on the estate and so they held a meeting with the Residents' Association where plants were chosen and activities for all ages were identified for the day.
After the planting Sutton Housing Partnership provided residents with a balloon race, we also helped to promote the Residents' Association and the different ways residents can get involved with the way housing services are provided.
Children enjoyed face painting, a bouncy castle and a gladiator run all provided by the local Residents' Association. Major work contractor Murphy's sponsored prizes for a tombola and the Salvation Army ran activities including, "Beat the Goalie" and gingerbread decorating. A barbecue and refreshments were provided by Sutton Central Safer Neighbourhood Team and ward Councillors Janet Lowne
and Sean Brennan also attended to support the event.
This was a great community event with residents, staff and partners helping to plan and host the day. SHP staff were able to listen to residents' suggestions for activities and improvements on the estate. Some popular feedback included requests for: Parking schemes to be implemented, more planting and improvements to external areas on the estate, more fun days and community events, painting the blocks different colours.
Some other benefits from the day included: one resident who led on the face painting activity will hopefully be undertaking a training course with a view to begin a career in childrens entertainment, the Residents' Association recruited new members to the group, ward councillors met with residents in the area and listened to their local priorities, the Salvation Army have offered to host a Christmas event for residents at Benhill with the support of the Residents' Association.
An important part of the day was to commemorate the work and dedication of a local resident and the former chair of the Benhill Residents' Association, Shirley Dacombe, who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Residents and members of Shirley's family attended a small service on the day to acknowledge Shirley's work and a solid wooden bench and a plaque were unveiled to remember her by. Residents were asked to make a small contribution to the tombola and barbecue to raise money for St. Raphael's Hospice in memory of Shirley Dacombe.