HUNDREDS flocked to the ABP Southampton Fun Day and helped the port to raise more than £1,000 for its charity of the year, the Rainbow Centre.

Staff from Britain’s biggest export port were joined by family members and friends for the day and among the families taking part were many who travelled from ABP’s inland rail terminal at Hams Hall in the Midlands.

The young – and the young at heart – got into the spirit of the day with face painting, games and hopping aboard a pleasure cruiser for a tour of the port by water.

Among those enjoying the day, was Jessica Povey and her parents Kerry and Antony. Jessica’s life has been transformed since attending the Rainbow Centre in Fareham.

Kelle Russell, corporate and community fundraiser at the Rainbow Centre, said: “We were absolutely delighted to of been invited to take part in the ABP Family Fun Day.

“It was a pleasure to meet so many of the ABP Southampton team that are supporting us this year. Jessica who attends The Rainbow Centre took her mum and dad along to enjoy the day, it was an unforgettable experience for the whole family. We cannot thank ABP Southampton enough for choosing us as their charity of the year, the money they raise will make a huge difference to changing the lives of many children like Jessica.”

As well as the tours of the port, there was food, balloon modelling, and a falconry display.

ABP engineers Gideon Ayres and Sean Cooper used the day to host their boxing match as part of the fund raising they are doing for the Rainbow Centre.

ABP Southampton Financial Controller, Annie Hazell, said: “My kids had a great time and the adults did too.

“The only problem is now my children think I go to a party with boat trips, face paints, balloons and bouncy castles when I come to work.”