A DREAM will be realised for the villagers of Widdington on Sunday as the gates to a fantastic new playground are officially opened.

A DREAM will be realised for the villagers of Widdington on Sunday as the gates to a fantastic new playground are officially opened.

Widdington Parish Council and village residents have spent two years trying to find the �60,000 required to install the impressive play facility. That included holding their own fundraising activities as well as securing grants and numerous sponsors.

Chairman of the parish council, Cllr Andrew Gardner, paid tribute to the Widdington Playground Appeal team and the village as a whole for helping the project to succeed.

“The parents who were at the forefront of this initiative have worked tirelessly to achieve such a fantastic result but the input of all villagers should also be recognised,” he said.

“Amongst other events, the village supported a very enjoyable race night in the village hall as well as making and donating a beautiful quilt to raffle.

“However, the main reason we were able to build such a fantastic playground was the success of the grant applications to the Big Lottery, Viridor and Carr & Bircher.”

The new playground is already proving to be a big hit. It boasts a cycle track, basket swing and an open top play bus and other newly-installed play items.

Cllr Gardner said: “It is now a superb playground which will provide a valuable place for those under 12 to play. The equipment presents physical challenges for all ages as well as stimulating the children’s imagination.

“We hope that the playground will be enjoyed by all and those that have not yet visited should make the time to come and see it for themselves – they won’t be disappointed.”

The launch party is to be held on Sunday October 3 between 2-4pm. The playground will be open for use and entertainers and light refreshments will be available. All are welcome.