Competitors from across the UK are being invited to make a splash at the inaugural World Puddle Jumping Championships, being held at Wicksteed Park, the home of children's play, this autumn. 

The Kettering park was founded by Charles Wicksteed, who invented the modern day slide and swing, as part of his vision to inspire and encourage play as part of families' health and well-being. 

The event is part of the park's drive to continue that legacy by encouraging children - and adults - to get out into the fresh air and have fun. 

A special series of championship-standard puddles are being created at the park, and competitors in age groups ranging from toddlers to young at heart pensioners will be encouraged to jump in and make a splash.

 Judges will give scores based on things such as height of jump, enthusiasm, distance of splash and stickability (the amount of mud which clings to each competitor).   

The event will be held as part of the park's autumn Play Day on Wednesday October 30, which will also include other free activities such as mud pits, kite flying, welly wanging, a leaf mountain and arts and crafts.  

Wicksteed Park Managing Director Alasdair McNee said: "Charles Wicksteed was a very successful businessman who decided to give something back to the community by encouraging them to lead a healthier lifestyle. 

"That ethos applies just as much today and one of the main focuses of the park is to encourage children and families to get out and enjoy traditional ways of having good, old fashioned fun. 

"We think puddle jumping and the Play Day event is a great way to do that. "Many children are familiar with puddle jumping through the TV  cartoon Peppa Pig but this is their chance to have a go for themselves." 

To enter the World Puddle Jumping Championships or apply to be a judge, contact info@wicksteedpark.co.uk or telephone 01536 512475.

For further information about Wicksteed Park go to www.wicksteedpark.co.uk

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For further information please contact:
Andrew Turner
Tel: 01253 600800
Email: andrew@gdrpr.co.uk