The Big Lunch was a big success in Sunderland

Families in Farringdon enjoyed a day of fun and activities at The Big Lunch. More than 200 residents attended the event at Farringdon Youth and Community Centre.

Youngsters in particular had a great time riding in a fire engine, meeting police officers, having glitter face paints, adopting a teddy, colouring and building.

There was the opportunity to plant fruit and vegetables in a planter to take home, as well as sunflower seeds as part of Gentoo’s Grow the Tallest Sunflower competition.

Thankfully the sun was shining on the day and attendees were also treated to a free ice cream.

A food van offered hot sandwiches for a small donation with all proceeds being donated to Gentoo’s corporate charity, Love, Amelia.

The day came courtesy of a partnership between housing association Gentoo, Sunderland City Council and others.

The Big Lunch is the UK’s annual get-together for neighbours and communities, with millions of people coming together for a few hours of friendship, food and fun.

Chris Roberts, director of Customer at Gentoo, said: ‘As an organisation we’re committed to having a positive impact on our local communities and it’s brilliant that we can create these opportunities to engage with our customers as well as providing fun, and educational activities.

“A huge thank you to our partners who helped put on a great day for our customers, it was great to see so many smiling faces.”

BAM Construction supported the event by providing snacks and a donation to the community group. Colleagues were also on hand to showcase plans for the new school building.

Other partners included Youth Almighty Project, Farringdon Youth and Community Centre, Northumbria Police, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and Love, Amelia.