Spinning orbits and air riders in revamped children’s park

Residents and councillors have spent more than 18 months fundraising for Play Parks for Hayling – a bid to bring all the parks into the 21st century.

Following a £79,000 upgrade Mengham Park, the first on the list, is now finished and will be officially opened tomorrow.

Councillor Yvonne Weeks, who is in charge of communities at Havant Borough Council, said: ‘This is a wonderful example of what can be achieved by local active community groups.

‘The good work of all involved is to be applauded, as the outcome has greatly improved play facilities for everyone.’

Development of the new play area, in St Andrew’s Road, Eastoke, has involved installing modern and traditional play equipment aimed for children of all ages.

The state-of-the-art adventure playground facilities include an aerial runway, spinning orbit, board and air riders, a climbing activity net, as well as swings and slides.

The renovation of the play area has been designed with bright, colourful features making it an enjoyable and fun place to visit.

Local donations, business donations, grants and sponsorship all helped to reach the £80,000 target.

Among those to have given grants are Veolia Environmental Trust, Southern Co-operative and Paris to Hayling Bike Ride participants.

There will be a celebration from 11am tomorrow which everyone is invited to.

Councillor Leah Turner, Mayor of Havant, will be the guest of honour.

Cllr Turner was one of the founders of Play Parks for Hayling, along with PC Debbie Surridge and Councillor Andy Lenaghan.

She said: ‘I am looking forward to welcoming people of all ages to this marvellous new fun-filled play area at the reopening.’

Organisers will now turn their attention to other play parks – so donations are still needed.

To make a donation go to playparksforhayling.co.uk.