A new £1.2m children's sports and activity centre, Jump, has just opened its doors in Cribbs Causeway, Bristol.

Designed by in-house architect Ted Brewster and funded by chairman and 100 per cent shareholder John Tham, Jump caters for all children from toddlers to 12 years.

Facilities in the 22,000 sq ft (2,000 sq m) centre, officially opened on 8 January by actress Jenny Agutter, include a padded football pitch, three enormous adventure play frames, trampolines, 10-pin bowling and themed party rooms. In addition, a range of entertainment – from balloon-sculpting to puppet shows – is on offer throughout the day. There is also a café for parents.

However, observes John Tham, "We believe that fun is a shared experience, so we encourage mums, dads and carers to get involved." On-hand to assist are 40 experienced staff.

Plans for further Jump activity centres will be announced later this year, with two new centres already scheduled for 2006 openings. Locations are yet to be announced but, considering the selection of the Bristol site, retail park settings would seem set to be strong contenders.