It might have been a grey and unassuming day yesterday – but KeyCreate's Sunshine and Rainbows Festival made it a memorable one.

Everyone was encouraged to wear their brightest, boldest and wackiest clothes, rainbow-coloured streamers and flags flew high and there was nothing but smiling faces.

The community group is aimed at families with young children, providing regular workshops and playgroups with an emphasis on diversity, inclusion and most importantly, fun.

Seven years ago, David Morris founded KeyCreate, combining his dramatic and musical performance background with his experience of working with disabled children and adults at Touch Trust.

"It's a lovely challenge to try and include as many people as possible. I set the bar really high to always make sure as many people can join in as possible," David told Nub News.

"Some people might be afraid of the spontaneity of performing live, but that's what floats my boat and I missed it during lockdown. Though people were very forgiving; we kept going virtually and were received really well.

"We've also had great support from the council and my wife Ellie is the brains of the operation. She has been amazing at working out booking systems behind the scenes."

One of the things that sets KeyCreate apart is catering for disabled and able-bodied children and their families alike, encouraging playing and learning together.

Ellie Evans ensures children improve their motor and language skills, as well as their personal development.

"That's one of our aims really, to make sure everyone is included. I've been to playgroups myself and not felt like we've fit in," she explained.

"We've used bit of funding and donation to build up our resources, but obviously Covid has been a challenge.

"Since opening back up we've been running our sessions outdoors to people can come and still feel safe."

As we spoke with David and Ellie, it was clear to see how much fun everyone was having. From sensory play activities, musical instruments, and interactive story time there was never a dull moment.

"A lot of the kids have struggled to re-socialise, so this is a safe space for them to learn how to do that again," said David.

"Because our background is with disability, we want encourage those families to come along. For parents of children with disabilities, the possibility of going to something new can be really daunting."

Nub News spoke with Katy, one of the volunteers at KeyCreate. She started attending as a personal assistant to Harriet, helping to provide her care.

"We needed somewhere to go while Harriet wasn't in school during the pandemic, so we came along to KeyCreate," she explained.

"After that, we loved it and my partner Aiden and I started volunteering. It's lots of fun and we've met so many new people – friends for life in some cases.

"We're like a big rainbow family now. There's no awkwardness or feeling like you don't belong. Everyone pitches in and helps where they can; it's more of a community than just a kids' group.

"Whenever I leave KeyCreate I'm always way happier than when I arrived."

To learn more about KeyCreate, click here.