Margate’s Dane Park was buzzing with activity on Wednesday 27 August, thanks to the Thanet Community Safety Partnership’s (TCSP) free community event.
Local people came along to take part in the Thanet Games, Knowledge Is Power safety event, and an annual dog show.
The event offered a diverse range of free activities for all ages and abilities. The Thanet Games, featuring mascot Terri the Tiger, encouraged fitness and mental wellbeing with sports, mindfulness sessions, as well as arts and crafts.
Knowledge Is Power was an opportunity to have open conversations and share vital safety information with the community. Attendees could also take part in interactive demonstrations from partner organisations including Network Rail, Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, RNLI and SECAMS. The focus was on the serious impacts of dangerous behaviours like trespassing on train tracks, tombstoning, drink/drug driving, and carrying knives, under the powerful message ‘Once is All It Takes’. Partner agencies also offered advice and awareness of exploitation and county lines, mental health, drug and alcohol support and healthy relationships.
A highlight of the day was the RSPCA and ENVE Canine Services dog show, where proud owners showcased their pets’ skills and competed for prizes, enjoying plenty of treats and fun activities. Eleven classes including best rescue dog, best trick, dog that looks most like its owner and the winners for each class were entered into Best in Show finale.
Cllr Heather Keen, Cabinet Member for Community, commented on the day’s success: “This week’s event at Dane Park was a true testament to Thanet’s vibrant community spirit. Seeing so many people engaging with the Thanet Games, learning crucial safety lessons at Knowledge Is Power, and enjoying the fantastic dog show was incredibly rewarding. A huge thank you to all the partner agencies who contributed to the day.
“Events like these underline our commitment to fostering a safe, active, and healthy community for everyone, including our four-legged friends!”
The event, hosted by the Thanet Community Safety Partnership and Active Thanet, reinforced the importance of community engagement, personal safety, and wellbeing.
