Beat the Street: Featherstone's interactive playground supports community engagement and active lifestyles

Featherstone witnessed an unprecedented surge in physical and mental wellness activities as the interactive game, Beat the Street, took over the area. With 2,856 participants covering a collective distance of 18,207 miles, the initiative showcased the community's commitment to health and fitness, marking a notable 17% increase in adult activity and a 12% rise among children.

Encouraging active lifestyles in Featherstone

Beat the Street, an engaging and innovative game, was hosted in Featherstone and nearby Sharlston and Streethouse throughout May and June. The initiative encouraged residents to explore their local areas through walking, running, or cycling, promoting physical activity and community engagement.

Councillor Michelle Collins, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, expressed her delight at the community's enthusiastic response.

"Congratulations to everyone who took part. The feedback has been incredible, and it is so positive to see that so many people embraced the opportunity to take part in the challenge which was one of the district’s Our Year 2024 events."

Impressive community participation and impact

The statistics speak volumes about the event's success. A total of 2,856 people actively participated, contributing to a collective distance of 18,207 miles. Notably, the initiative led to a 17% increase in adult activity and a 12% increase in children's physical engagement. Additionally, there was a significant 14% decrease in the number of adults who previously considered themselves inactive.

A year of celebration and physical activity: Our Year 2024

Beat the Street was a key highlight of Our Year - Wakefield District 2024, an ambitious 366-day programme filled with physical, cultural, and heritage activities across the Wakefield District. This initiative aims to inspire residents to lead active lifestyles while celebrating the region's rich culture and history.

The event was not just about physical activity; it also aimed to foster community spirit and environmental awareness. Participants used special Beat Boxes installed on lampposts across Featherstone, earning points and discovering local hidden gems by swiping contactless cards.

Recognising community efforts

Various groups and schools participated in the event, with certificates awarded in different categories. The winners included:

• Total Points: Purston Infant School
• Performance Works - Average Points: Streethouse Primary School
• Community and Workplace Winners: PerformanceWrx and Featherstone Top Cats

In a heartwarming gesture, a charity donation was made to Andy's Man Club, supporting mental health initiatives.

The vision behind Beat the Street

Beat the Street, conceptualized by GP Dr. William Bird MBE, aims to enhance physical activity among all age groups, reduce congestion, improve air quality, and strengthen family bonds in green spaces. This initiative is more than just a game; it seeks to leave a lasting legacy by boosting community health and well-being.

Celebrating Wakefield's unique culture

Our Year – Wakefield District 2024 is a partnership celebration led by Wakefield Council, featuring a year-long programme of spectacular events, festivals, and community activities. This initiative is designed to attract investment, boost the local economy, and highlight the vital role creativity plays in fostering community spirit.

Through Beat the Street, Featherstone has set an example of how community-driven initiatives can effectively promote active lifestyles and enhance overall well-being. As residents eagerly look forward to the continuation of Our Year 2024, the success of this interactive playground underscores the positive impact of engaging community activities.