SUPERHEROES and cartoon characters shared the rides and soft play activities at a play centre.

The Fun Factory, on Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford, hosted a themed party with staff dressing up as various characters, including Buzz from Toy Story and Ironman.

Leo, the factory’s mascot, also brought a smile to children’s faces.

Greg Shinn, from Westcliff, was at the event with his niece Isabelle O’Dell, six, and nephew Harry, three. He said: “The kids love it there. I took them there as a birthday present for Isabelle. They enjoyed the face painting and balloon modelling. Their favourite part is the swirly slide.

“It’s a great place and there is lots for them to do as they get bigger. The staff are very passionate and seem to really care about the children. I was thoroughly impressed.”

The Fun Factory boasts a climbing wall, sensory room, ice skating rink, mini quads, sports arena and soft play.

It also hosts parties and meets all the latest health and safety, fire and building regulations and has the top rating for food hygiene from the environmental health department.

The centre’s next event is a reptile day on July 19. Visit www.funfactoryrochford.co.uk for more information.