Colleagues at Wyre Forest Leisure Centre hosted “National Play Day” in honour of their friend and colleague Ash Roberts, who died in June aged 51.
Almost £850 was raised from the event for The Donkey Sanctuary, which was a charity close to Ash’s heart.
Sarah Davies, who organised the event with help from Tracey Lloyd, Holly Cashmore, Amy Blackadder, Jenny Evans and Adam Hope, said: “I was so pleased with the turnout of the event. I had to pinch myself a few times.
“I couldn’t have done without the support of my work team. It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining and everybody was so happy.
“There were lots of people talking about lovely Ash and saying what a good atmosphere it was. I only had six weeks to plan, but I really think it went well. Thank you to everyone who made the effort to donate and visit us.”
Ash motivated hundreds of people at Wyre Forest Leisure Centre, teaching body pump, combat and cycling classes each week.
Mr Roberts, from Kidderminster, also worked as a teaching assistant at Burlish Park Primary School, teaching PE, and has been described as an “inspiring man”.
Ahead of the event, colleagues said: “Ash was always such an uplifting man and would try and encourage everyone.
“I can’t believe we won’t see him again.”
The “National Play Day” event took place on August 6 with free bouncy castles, an adults and children’s raffle, face painting, glitter tattoos, penalty shootout, live music and more.
The event in memory of Ash is taking place on Wednesday (August 6) from 12pm until 3pm with all money raised going to charity.
There will be free bouncy castles, an adults and children’s raffle with great prizes donated by local businesses including £100 cash, face painting, glitter tattoos, penalty shootout, live music from Sarah Wills who reached judges houses on X Factor and West Mercia Police will have a stand where children can dress up and sit in a police car.
The event is free entry and the first 50 children will receive a goodie bag.
One visitor at the event said: “It was an amazing day and the weather was beautiful.”
Another visitor said: “We all feel so humbled with how the whole community came together.”
Another visitor added: “The cakes were just amazing.”
Ms Davies has also thanked Louise Gould, Liz Elt, Vanessa Babbington and Rachel Green for helping to set up and run stalls on the day.
Sarah Wills, who reached judges houses on X Factor, was also singing her heart out whilst West Mercia Police and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service also attended and were “fantastic” with the children.
Ms Davies added: “I also want to say a big thank you to Chris Foxall from Cupids Wedding Designs & Events for making a beautiful display and balloon arch free of charge.
“Tools Direct, Resilient Group, those who donated lots of hair and beauty vouchers, Treats by Chance and all the lovely traders.”
Visit the Just Giving page here www.justgiving.com/page/sarah-davies-1224