Inspector Percival Buddan. - File

Children in and around communities located downtown Kingston, had a grand time Wednesday at a back-to-school treat organised by Inspector Percival Buddan, the officer in charge of the City Centre Police Station.

The theme of the treat was 'Building a brighter future through partnership'.

There were giveaways for the children, which included school bags, shoes, pencils, sharpeners, erasers and other stationery.

When THE WEEKEND STAR arrived at the location, parents and children were immersed in fun and games. Children were seen joining queues to have their turn on the waterslide and bounce-about.

Patrons were also entertained by comedians Apachie Chief and Sarge, who had the crowd in a frenzy when they emulated the voices of dancehall entertainers such as Bounty Killer and Lady Saw.

There was also a performance by a marching band and patrons were kept busy dancing throughout the entire event, as their favourite songs were played by the disc jock.

Later in the day, there was a dancing contest, which provided children with the opportunity to showcase their dancing ability, as they were and cheered on for every dance move they made.

Inspector Buddan told THE WEEKEND STAR the rationale for hosting the treat.

"I'm a people-oriented person and I liaised with some of the business places. I felt like the time had come to give back more to the community," he said.

He also commented, "we have to centre our approach on community-based policing".

It was estimated that at least 500 patrons attended the treat, parents and children alike, which marked the success of the event. "The support is overwhelming," Inspector Buddan explained.

he pointed out that support was received from communities such as Matthews Lane, Luke Lane, Tower Street, West Street and Church Street, among others, and he was confident that the event had to be staged again. "It has to be done again," he remarked.