A FREE community initiative which aims to help residents come together in green spaces has now launched in Halstead.

Halstead ParkPlay takes place every Saturday morning at King George Playing Fields, in Kings Road.

Starting at 9.30am, residents of all ages are welcome to join Halstead ParkPlay for a two-hour morning session of different activities designed to help people become more active outdoors.

The event is also aimed to help encourage social interaction within the community.

Halstead ParkPlay has been funded by the Halstead Safer Streets Project, which aims to help tackle antisocial behaviour in the town.

More than £300,000 of government funding was secured by Braintree Council in partnership with the Essex police, fire and crime commissioner.

An additional £150,000 was funded by Braintree Council, Halstead Council and community safety partnerships.

All the money is being used to invest in areas of Halstead.

ParkPlay has launched 60 sessions in parks across the country and has had more than 11,000 registered participants.

By 2026, ParkPlay hopes to reach 450 locations across the country.

To get involved in Halstead ParkPlay, you must register on its website at park-play.com/register.

All children under the age of 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult.