ENG-1970 — Page 264

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RECREATION

SUMMER RECREATION PROGRAMME

During the summer months of 1970, as in previous years, a large-scale programme of recreation activities and service projects was mounted for the young people of Hong Kong. The activities were financed by a generous donation of over $800,000 from the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club and a roughly matching contribu- tion by Government. There were also numerous donations from community groups, firms, families and private individuals.

It is estimated that the activities this year touched an unprece- dented number of young people—800,000 and probably more. A programme of this considerable magnitude was possible only through the joint efforts and ready co-operation of the community. The activities involved schools, voluntary agencies, district organisa- tions, church groups, business firms, private benefactors and many government departments.

This summer's recreation programme included many forms of outdoor activities, visits and tours, sports competitions and coach- ing courses, service and holiday camps, training courses and working youth seminars, concerts and dances, drama and variety shows, art contests and other cultural activities. It is becoming more and more evident that while the activities have a purely recreational value for young people, they are used increasingly as a means of developing qualities of leadership and service in the young people of Hong Kong.

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A significant development this year was the formation of District Youth and Recreation Co-ordinating Committees in the 15 City and New Territories districts. These committees involve local groups and district leaders and provide focal points for the joint planning and co-ordination of activities within individual districts. The overall co-ordination of the planning and financing of the programme was carried out by an ad hoc Central Co- ordinating Committee, comprising representatives from the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and major government departments with an interest in youth recreation.

ENTERTAINMENT AND THE ARTS

The performing arts play an increasingly important part in the cultural life of Hong Kong. The centre of these activities is the