New climbing frame (From Gazette Series)

New climbing frame

CHILDREN in Wotton-under-Edge can now enjoy a new climbing frame, thanks to a multitude of donors.

The Synwell Playing Field Committee announced this week that a new climbing frame is to be installed in the play area on Synwell Lane.

The frame is designed for children aged eight to 15 years and has been funded by donations and grants from local and national organisations.

Monies have come from Gloucestershire Environmental Trust, the National Lottery's Awards for All Scheme, Wotton Town Council, Stroud District Council and local firm Renishaw.

The committee started fundraising earlier this year and with the support of Wotton Town Council managed to secure £19,500 to spend on the independently-owned play area.

Julia Fry, joint secretary of the Synwell Playing Field Committee, said the old climbing frame had desperately needed replacing.

She said: "We fundraise every other year to replace obsolete play equipment and the old climbing frame had been there for 15 years and was failing safety checks.

"When deciding what to replace it with we went for something that would appeal to the older age group."

With the money raised the playing field committee has also been able to install safety bollards at the entrance of the field to provide better visibility for children crossing the road.

Mrs Fry said cars parking near the playing field were creating safety concerns for those who used it.

She said: "There are always problems with parked cars by the field especially on a match day.

"The parked cars obstruct the children's view when crossing the road and they also stop drivers being able to see the children trying to cross.

"We are thrilled that we have been able to complete two projects this year the climbing frame and the bollards. The playground is such a wonderful facility for the town to have."