YOUNGSTERS in Bratton Clovelly now have a great new park to play in, thanks to a team effort by residents and the parish council.

Bratton Active Play group, which was set up by three families in the village, have raised a total of £9,000 so far, after securing a grant of £5,000 from Awards for All Lottery fund, £1,000 from West Devon Borough Council and £3,000 from money raised by residents.

Now Bratton Clovelly Parish Council has purchased new play equipment and materials for the village's under fives toddler group.

A child-friendly play area, which is situated beside the village hall, will be fenced and surfaced for safe play.

The next stage of the project is to extend the existing play equipment, with an extension bridge and turret added to the play den, along with a picnic bench, which will cost a total of £3,500.

The toddler group is appealing for any donations from local businesses towards the play den fees.

The construction work has been undertaken voluntarily by parish councillor Paul Bellamy and other volunteers who are all members of Bratton Active Play.

Mr Bellamy said: 'This project shows that when a community comes together, what can be achieved.

'The kids of Bratton Clovelly have now got a fun and safe place to play in.'

Bratton Clovelly Under 5s toddler group is also holding a fun day at the grand opening of its new play area and equipment. Everyone is welcome to come along and join in the fun where there will be wacky races, fun activity stalls, bouncy castles and more.

Anyone who wants to book a stall to raise funds for a local club can phone Andrea Cartwright on 01837 871688 or email [email protected]">[email protected]

The fun day will be held on Saturday, August 8 at noon at at the Bratton Clovelly village fete. The group is also holding a pirates and princesses fancy dress event to celebrate the grand opening of their new play area.