TOP tips on savvy spending in the school holidays have been offered by a Morpeth charity.
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is reminding families of affordable activities on their doorstep.
They include exploring Morpeth’s Carlisle Park, visiting Blyth Beach, or taking a trip to The Great North Museum in Newcastle.
CAP Morpeth Centre Manager Kirsty Douglas said: “Everyone wants their kids to have a lovely time in the summer, but if you want to avoid dipping into the overdraft, it will take planning. Some research and imagination at this stage will save you pounds and help families avoid the kind of debt problems that can soon mount up.
“It really doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive for the family to enjoy time together. Some space, some time, some toys and a picnic can be all it takes to provide a memorable day out.”
Ideas include:
l Make a jar of activity ideas on slips of card for a lucky dip.
l Visit libraries, museums and art galleries, which are often free and regularly run events.
l Do something different, such as paint a picture outdoors or camp out.
l Try a geocaching treasure hunt with a free mobile phone app.
l Have a get-together with friends.
l Make the most of free entertainment by checking council listings.
l Have a simple picnic.
lTry spotting birds, bugs and trees.
l Check out meal vouchers for restaurants online.
l Help other people by washing cars, baking a cake or visiting a relative.
For free advice on debt or budgeting problems contact CAP on 0800 328 0006, or visit www.capuk.org