Have you been inspired by all those fabulous beaches you've seen during the Rio Olympics? Then get to work creating your very own beach in your back garden and host a fabulous children’s birthday party.

Zone your garden

Whatever size of garden you have, make a plan to create different areas. First, of course, is the ‘beach’, so having worked out the dimensions of this area, order some sand and take advice from your supplier as to how much you will realistically need. Think about containing the sand in some manner, such as laying down a tarpaulin and folding up the edges, as you don’t want it to make a mess once it has been removed.

Next you will need some form of water to play in. You could use a large paddling pool or a garden sprinkler; or lay down some plastic sheeting and throw buckets of water over it for the children to slide on - it’s really great fun.

Bring the beach to life

Think of all those iconic British beaches with their colourful stripy deckchairs and children running around with their buckets and spades. It’s time to dust off those chairs at the back of the shed and add a splash of colour to the garden. Get some bright beach balls and don’t forget that oh so important activity of building a sand castle.

A trip to the beach is never complete without a tasty ice cream with a flake in it. Make a fantastic birthday surprise and plan your very own ice cream van for your party. The children will absolutely love it. Just imagine their faces when they hear the familiar call of the ice cream van pulling up outside your door. You can hire your own ice cream van, or have a word with your local van and ask if they can drop by.

Organise some wonderful custom printed party invitations

Make your child’s birthday party extra special with some quality beach party invitations from Puttyprint, where you can choose from a large selection of designs to suit your beach party. Don’t worry if you need them in a hurry, just order before 10am and your invitations will be dispatched same day, with free delivery.