The event was hosted by the Chairman of New Forest District Council, Councillor John Hutchins, and Councillor Mrs Maureen Holding, portfolio holder for health and social inclusion, and joined by Helen Tew, the extremely ‘capable’ yachtswoman who crossed the Atlantic in a traditional gaff cutter at the age of 88, and Nicholas de Rothschild of Exbury Gardens.

People with disabilities, their carers, family and friends came from across the region to join in the fun of the festival at Appletree Court in Lyndhurst. The event, which was supported by Esso and ExxonMobil Chemical at Fawley, offered a wide range of information and advice as well as recreational and sporting activities.

Drum For Fun demonstrated their exciting range of drums and percussion instruments, while Coda invited visitors to take part in music therapy workshops. Forest Arts performed a tap dance display in the morning and hosted a creative dance workshop in the afternoon, and Hamish the dog from Canine Partners demonstrated his special skills for helping people with disabilities.

Brockenhurst College offered visitors the opportunity to have a go at trampolining, while football enthusiasts put their talents to the test in a skills challenge and penalty shoot-out. Information and advice was also available from a wide range of local organisations including Community First, New Forest Care & Repair, RYA Sailabiltiy, the Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy, Alzheimers Society, HACB and New Forest District Council.