Children sat in police cars and tested the sirens during a free summer holiday session at Stoneleigh Park in Oldham.

The event was part of a weekly Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, which provides enriching activities and nutritious meals during the school holidays. The sessions are held every Wednesday, organised by Oldham Council and the Friends of Stoneleigh Park community group.

The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mark Llewellin, visited the park to meet families and the teams running the session. Children enjoyed sports, face painting, a giant bouncy castle and a helter skelter.

A highlight was the chance for children to explore a police car and van with officers. They took turns in the driver's seat, sounding the siren and activating the flashing blue lights. The hands-on experience helped break down barriers between young people and the police by creating positive interactions in a relaxed and friendly setting.

Mark Llewellin said: "It was wonderful to see so many children enjoying themselves, making friends and taking part in activities that keep them active, happy and engaged during the school holidays. The opportunity for young people to meet police officers in this environment is invaluable in building trust and understanding."

Carrie-Ann Varey, Holiday Activities and Food Manager for Oldham Council, said: "The HAF programme is about much more than keeping children occupied during the school holidays. It's about creating opportunities for children to be active, enjoy healthy food, build confidence and make new friends."

The HAF programme is a government-funded initiative. It is aimed at children and young people aged five to 16 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals.