A flourishing community project is set to get a mention in Parliament. Rainy Dayz is a popular workshop for both children and adults held on Wednesdays and Fridays at the recreation centre in Mill Lane, Potton. MP for North East Bedfordshire Alistair Burt

A flourishing community project is set to get a mention in Parliament.

Rainy Dayz is a popular workshop for both children and adults held on Wednesdays and Fridays at the recreation centre in Mill Lane, Potton.

MP for North East Bedfordshire Alistair Burt was so impressed he has selected Rainy Dayz as a fine example of a successful community project and is set to mention it in a House of Commons debate.

"I was over the moon when I heard Mr Burt wanted to mention us," said Naomi Marek who founded Rainy Dayz.

"Starting up the workshops has been hard work but the support from the village has been overwhelming and I've been able to open another after school club and an adult class in the evening."

Mrs Marek, of Everton Road, Potton, sowed the seeds for her remarkable project by trying to encourage people of all ages to show their creativity in all forms of art.

She had spent the previous 10 years as a painter exhibiting in one-man and group shows in Soho, Hampstead and the East End of London. Her work is now held in collections in Europe and Canada.

She hopes to establish an arts centre in Potton that will hopefully include a theatre, cinema, music, sports centre and crèche.

"I know it will be a bit of a battle. But if it can happen anywhere, Potton is definitely the place," added Mrs Marek.

"This summer we are doing underwater tales, mermaids, pirates and magical creatures, as well as a super heroes workshop including costumes, comics and secret gadgets.

"I hope that the success of Rainy Dayz will encourage other people to get more involved in their local community.

"It can be so easy to get isolated. Whether you are a new mum, a teenager or elderly person, finding groups and activities to broaden your horizons or just make new friends can make all the difference in village life."

Mr Burt said: "Well done to Mrs Marek for thinking of the idea, for setting up the workshops and for getting children into art, music and world cultures in such an exciting way.

"As shadow minister for communities and regeneration I hope to take part in a debate on volunteering and community work in the House of Commons and the good work of groups like Rainy Dayz should not go unnoticed and I will raise it in the house."

If you would like to know more about Rainy Dayz you can call Mrs Marek on 01767 625485 or email her at rainydayz@fsmail.net