13 April 2012

Other News In Brief

National Trust Launch Childrens “Bucket List”

The National Trust has produced a “bucket list” of activities for children to encourage more outdoor play and adventure.

’50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾’ includes climb a tree, roll down a grassy hill and cook on a campfire.

The list is based on research showing that fewer that fewer than one in ten of today's children have played in a wild place compared to half of their parents' generation.

There are also more difficult activities such as abseiling, lighting a fire without matches and 'geocaching' – a hi-tech form of hide and seek. The campaign will launch on April 21 when 200 National Trust properties will be opening their doors to offer different activities.

Hot Air Balloon Delays Flights At Gatwick

Flights at Gatwick were grounded for an hour this morning after a hot air balloon drifted too close to runways.

Planes were unable to take off from the airport as police and air traffic controllers searched for the balloon in thick fog.

The balloon was first spotted around 9am but then disappeared into thick fog.

Gatwick, Britain's second busiest airport, confirmed planes were lining up and ready to depart by 9.20 - with only five flights affected.

A spokesman said: 'The airport is not closed and arrival flights are still landing, but departing flights were suspended for safety reasons.'

Survey Shows Parents Anxious About Playing With Their Children

A new survey has suggested British parents are suffering a “crisis of confidence” when it comes to playing with their children.

The survey, carried out by researchers on behalf of Ribena, revealed that 13% felt anxious about play, while 17% admitted buying toys and video games for their children to take the pressure off themselves.

Almost half of 2,000 parents questioned said they would welcome expert help on how to play.

Play campaigner Adrian Voce called on the government to develop a national play strategy.