New �65,000 play area for Slade

THE play area at Slade Valley in Ilfracombe has undergone a stunning �65,000 transformation. The revamp cash from local councils and organisations has seen the park fully revamped, with a new kick about area and new play equipment for all ages, including

THE play area at Slade Valley in Ilfracombe has undergone a stunning �65,000 transformation.

The revamp cash from local councils and organisations has seen the park fully revamped, with a new kick about area and new play equipment for all ages, including an aerial runway for older children, tyre swing and play facilities for toddlers.

It has been funded by �45,000 from Devon County Council's Play Builder Scheme, plus �10,000 from North Devon Council and �5,000 each from North Devon Homes and Ilfracombe County Councillor Geoff Fowler's Investing in Devon Fund.

The play area was officially opened on Wednesday by county council chairman, Councillor John Berry, at a day long event which included a free barbecue, football tournament and dance workshops. The event was organised by North Devon Council, which owns the area and Transform, the Neighbourhood Management Team for Ilfracombe.

Cutting a ribbon to mark the opening, Cllr Berry said: "I think this is an excellent facility for young people to enjoy and let off excess energy.

"Such places are great for health, exercise, stimulation and creating friendships between children."

North Devon Council chairman, Councillor Roy Lucas, added: "I hope the people of Slade will enjoy everything that has been provided and I would like to thank Hannah Harrington and George Holman at the district council for their hard work to enable today's event to happen.