Try out event brings ‘vitality’ to Worthing
The first ‘try out day’ was set up by trader Paul O’Brien, of Candy Love in Bath Place, in partnership with Worthing Town Centre Initiative.
It was aimed at introducing young people to new activities, ranging from boxing to circus workshops, as well as increasing footfall in the town centre.
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Hide AdMr O’Brien said: “It went really well. We were very lucky with the weather and it was something new.
“Lots of clubs came along and got a lot of new members, so initial feedback has been positive.”
Stalls were spread out across Montague Place and South Street square, with Brighton and Hove Albion and Sussex County Cricket Club, among others, offering free coaching sessions.
Special guests, including resident tennis ace Lauren Jones, UK number one female skateboarder Lucy Adams and Worthing Football Club manager Adam Hinshelwood also gave talks on stage.
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Hide AdMr O’Brien said: “I think for the first time, on a limited budget, it worked really well.
“For traders, it is normally quite a flat weekend as it is the school holidays but it sounds like lots of shops were busy on the day.
“I was trying to think of things that could bring things into town which were not going to take away from retailers because sometimes things are quite similar to what we offer, like the market might offer similar products.”
Town centre manager Sharon Clarke said the event was well received, with some clubs signing up over 40 new members.
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Hide AdShe said: “It was great to encourage young people into sporting activities and taking exercise. It added vitality to our town and that’s what we are all about.
The event was supported by Worthing Borough Council, West Sussex County Council, Roffey Homes, the TCI and Mr O’Brien also donated funds towards the running costs.