Playday is the national day for play, celebrated each year across the UK on the first Wednesday in August, which means that it falls today.


The theme of this year’s event is Play – the culture of childhood: supporting play, fun and friendships.
It celebrates the rich and lively culture of children’s play.
Every child plays – playfulness is a distinct feature of behaviour across generations and cultures – and playing generates a culture of childhood.
It is vital for children’s health, happiness and creativity.
On Playday, organisers are calling on everyone – families, playworkers, and all those who work with children across the UK – to join together to foster a culture of supporting play.
Cumbrian children have never needed prompting to play and our main picture shows new starters at Newton School in 2016 getting acquainted with the play area. From left to right are Abigail Richards, Falon Slone, Damon Schofield, Jemima White, Joseph Coombes, Molly Rhodes, Isabella Ireland and Eedi Park.

(Image: Mike McKenzie)
Above, Gary Palmer joins his son Tyler in the playground at Arlecdon School’s bring your parents to school day.

(Image: Newsquest)
Poring over plans for a new playground in Dearham are Jessica Mavris, Joseph Jackson, Sophia Mavris and Hannah Jackson.

(Image: Newsquest)
The opening of The Lost Castle play area, at Lowther Castle in 2016, brought children in their droves. Pictured is a little girl in fancy dress enjoying the facility.

(Image: Newsquest)

Concerns were raised for children's safety when an unrestricted speed sign was erected in the middle of Blindcrake where they played.

(Image: Newsquest)
Youngsters had endless fun playing in hammocks at Hillside residents’ Autumn Festival on Ellenfoot Drive, Maryport.

(Image: Newsquest)
Among those rushing to the new playpark in Hayton Village in 2016 were city councillor Raymond Tinnion and chairman of Hayton Playing Group, Dave Billington - at least they let the children have a go on the slide.

(Image: Newsquest)

(Image: Newsquest)

Our final two pictures are of the play area at Bitts Park in Carlisle on its reopening after repairs following the December 2015 floods.