This July, Dan’s Den at Christchurch, Ilkley’s not-for-profit soft play centre, celebrates its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of laughter, friendships, and unwavering community support.
To celebrate this incredible milestone, the Dan’s Den team is holding a special party on 4 July, 1pm-3pm, to honour everyone who has been part of its journey, and who have contributed their time, generosity, and support to make Dan’s Den a cherished space for families.
Dan’s Den began in 2012, when church member Maggie Sharman envisioned a safe and welcoming space inspired by Daniel in the Lion’s Den, a story of faith, courage, and perseverance. After months of building a business case the church granted permission to convert Riddings Hall into a soft play centre with a café.
After a long period of planning and fundraising, led by volunteer Christine Henney, an incredible £300,000 was raised through local donations, businesses, and grants; with a single £12,000 donation made at the last minute when additional funding was needed.
Dan’s Den officially opened on 4 July 2015.
Now 10 years on, the party will bring together all who have been part of the journey, whether part of the original roll-out team, a donor, a staff member, a volunteer, a trustee, or have contributed to Dan’s Den in any way.
Dan’s Den manager Becky Lawson is looking forward to the party and said:
“Over the past decade, Dan’s Den has become an integral part of the community as well as attracting families from further afield to the town. We look forward to many more successful years, and to continue to be a safe and welcoming space.
“We felt it was important to throw a party on the 4 July to thank everyone who has played a role in its success, from its inception to today, to celebrate 10 years of laughter, friendship and support and to share precious memories together.”
Beyond its daily play sessions, Dan's Den has continually evolved over the 10 years to meet the diverse needs of families. From dedicated private sessions for families and children with additional needs, including SEN preschool sessions, to baby natal and sensory support to help new parents navigate early parenthood and private group play sessions for asylum seekers and refugee families in Bradford, the centre has been a place of guidance and growth for young families.
As part of Christchurch’s outreach, the centre also hosts its Smile programme, a service of worship for families and their children with additional needs, allowing parents to take part in a non-traditional church service, and Messy Church, an interactive and creative way for children to explore faith.
Through its dedicated volunteers, inclusive programmes, and faith-filled foundations, Dan’s Den continues to fulfil its mission: to be a focal point within the community and a place of joy, connection and encouragement for all.
To join the 10 year anniversary party, Dan’s Den is asking anyone who has been involved over the past years to email: dansden@outlook.com.
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