THE new-look Northlew playing field was officially re-opened last Saturday, providing a fantastic new outside facility for the local community.

With the generous support from Devon County Council's Playbuilder scheme, the playing field and park was announced open by the leader of West Devon Borough Council and county councillor James McInnes.

Based on land donated by local farmer Percy Adams back in 1989, Northlew playing field has been a central play area and venue for local residents for the last twenty years.

However the facilities available for use by the local community have gradually fallen into disrepair.

Due to a huge community effort as well as financial support from the county council, the Manor House Hotel, the Rotary Club and local house builder 'Sunny Bank Homes', Northlew is proud to launch its new look playing field and park.

The application that won the funding, made use of local stones, wood and non-metal play equipment, indigenous fruit trees native to Devon, wild flowers and bulbs as well as a willow house and boxes to attract wildlife.

The application scored 87% for its particular round of funding and was ultimately appointed as a flagship project. Although work took place during some of the wettest months on record, contractors and local residents pulled together to ensure the new facility would be ready on time.

Jane Colbourne, Northlew parish councillor, said: 'To have access to a playground with such great facilities is a fantastic benefit for the whole village and community and it's lovely to see children of all ages playing together and really enjoying their park.'