Merton gets ready to celebrate Cultural Olympiad

Merton is gearing itself up for a free fun family event, as the council takes the 2010 cultural Olympiad celebrations to Raynes Park.

The activity-packed day is all set to start on Saturday 10 July from 12 noon -5pm in Cottenham Park. There will be something for everyone. Visitors to the cultural extravaganza will be able to try out arts and crafts, or test their volleyball, tennis or football skills.

People of all ages will be able to take part in the Merton mini-games and have a go at parachute games. An interactive installation called Colourscape will be there to be explored in all its multi-sensory glory. The Colourscape Project is a brightly coloured dome housing bubbled corridors and rooms where visitors can experience music and performing arts. The dome’s interior links music with colour, space, light and movement. Visitors will also get the opportunity to listen to and see talented local musicians and dancers.

Visitors are advised to arrive early as there is limited parking. There will be no parking within the park, and disabled parking will be available on Melbury Gardens by the park entrance.

For information on cultural Olympiad events in the borough visit http://www.merton.gov.uk/raynes_park_fun_day

The event is also part of the MyRaynesPark Festival, which is taking place 9 – 18 July 2010. For more information visit http://www.myraynespark.co.uk

Merton Council’s cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Martin Whelton said: “The festival of culture and sport in Cottenham Park will be a fabulous celebration for the whole family. The event offers exciting opportunities for people of all ages to try out different sports and discover talents they never knew they had.

“It is fantastic to see so many different organisations working in partnership to put on this wonderful free event for the local community. The cultural Olympiad gives us the perfect chance to promote the importance of health and fitness. Through bringing together sport and art we can give residents the opportunities to participate in various sporting and cultural activities.”