HUNDREDS of people flocked to a weekend of events designed to showcase the diverse range of activities at a dale community centre.
On Friday, The Hub, in Shaw Bank, Barnard Castle, staged its first food festival, serving up a range of tasty treats not otherwise available in the town, all accompanied by live music into the night.
Then on Saturday, there was a family day, which, despite the deluge, proved a popular attraction.
Events concluded on Sunday with A Dog’s Day Out, which saw a steady stream of four legged friends and their owners enjoy a range of attractions.
There was pet photography, pampering and tips on how to keep pets healthy from Castle Vets.
A bran tub filled with treats brought by Pat Kingsnorth, of the Ark on the Edge organisation, proved popular, as did doggy icecream made by Vicky Taylor, event and reception manager at The Hub and the event’s organiser.
Officials from East Shaws kennels and cattery highlighted their services, including hydrotherapy for dogs recovering from injury, while a full groom was offered by Wash, Wag and Go as the top prize for the day.
Ms Taylor said the weekend had gone well.
“We were overwhelmed by the response to the food festival. We had between 250 and 300 people on the night. It was great and also a chance to show off our outdoor stage.”
As a result, it is hoped to make the food festival a regular event in The Hub’s calendar.
“Saturday was completely different with the family fun day offering everything from laughter yoga to canoeing,” added Ms Taylor.
“Despite the weather, we had about 40 families through the door.
“Then the dog’s day out was lovely for people to have somewhere to go that’s dog friendly and where they could meet other dog lovers.”
She added: “The weekend was designed to show what a diverse centre this is and give people who might not normally come down here the chance to experience The Hub.
“It seems to have been very popular.”
Events at The Hub continue on Thursday, August 1, with a Teddy Bear’s Picnic between noon and 2pm. Admission is £5 per child, which includes a picnic box lunch prepared by the cafe.
For details, contact Ms Taylor at The Hub on 01833 690150.
