Leeds Children’s Charity brings ‘amazing’ family rave to Lineham Farm

There were smiles all around at Lineham farm today (September 27) as families danced, toasted marshmallows, and made the most of a day of music, activities and fun at the woodland family rave.

Children danced along to the music, joined in with activities and gathered around the fire for toasted marshmallows, while parents got involved in the fun too.

The family-friendly event at Lineham Farm was organised by Leeds Children’s Charity, bringing families together while raising money to support children facing poverty and disadvantage across the city.

For many, it was a chance to spend the day outdoors and enjoy the charity’s picturesque woodland setting, with music and games from Boomchikkaboom providing the soundtrack to the afternoon.

Shanead Waddington said it was her first time at the event, but it would certainly not be her last.

She told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “It’s been amazing, there’s been lots of activities for the children, loads of toasted marshmallows and some great music too.”

“I didn’t know that one in four children in Leeds live in poverty, so it’s a really good cause, and really good for the parents to be able to give money, help the charity out and have a good time while doing it.”

Leeds Children’s Charity supports children across the city facing poverty, disadvantage and difficult circumstances.

The charity currently provides breaks for more than 3,000 children in the city, giving them the opportunity to enjoy time away from home and school while taking part in activities including climbing, bushcraft and archery.

Kayleigh Edwards, from Leeds Children’s Charity, said the family rave was a chance to bring people together while showing families what events happen at Lineham Farm.

She said: “our ticket sales go towards our fundraising, which helps us provide breaks for children.”

Kayleigh said the experiences offered at the farm can help children build confidence and resilience, while giving them the chance to experience the outdoors.

“Simply coming into a woodland or coming out to the countryside might not be an experience that some children have,” she added.

“Some might not have access to green spaces.”

Amy Gooder, who attended the event with her family, said one of her favourite parts of the day was simply being able to enjoy the outdoors.

“We’ve all had a fantastic time, it’s great to be outdoors with the freedom to roam around and all the events for the children have been amazing,” she said.

And it wasn’t just the children who were getting into the spirit of the day.

Adam O’Leary brought his daughter Jodie along because she loves to dance, but said the whole family had ended up having a brilliant time.

“We’re already looking at what other events Leeds Children’s Charity do, and it’s just such a lovely setting here, it’s so beautiful,” he told the YEP.

“In the times that we are living in now, it’s great that charities like this exist to provide opportunities for children who may not otherwise have access to them.”

With one in four children in Leeds living in poverty, the charity says the need for their work has never been greater.

Kayleigh added: “We want to give them the opportunities that every child deserves.”