Cotswold Lakes Trust’s new play area went down a storm when the gate was officially opened at Neigh Bridge Country Park in Somerford Keynes.

After a speedy ribbon-cutting ceremony, local children clambered all over the equipment. Even Gloucestershire County Councillor Lisa Spivey had a go.

“It’s fantastic. We’ve waited so long for something like this,” said Somerford Keynes Parish Councillor Mark Hastie-Oldland.

Executive Chairman of Cotswold Lakes Trust Paul Hazel thanked all those who helped fund the project, especially The Hills Group, along with Gloucestershire County Council Build Back Better Grant and local company, Somerford Consulting. “We’re really proud to have been able to make this project happen,” he said. “It’s a great new facility which was much needed.”

Group Director for Hills Quarry Products, Peter Andrew, cut the opening ribbon along with five-year-old Rose Hastie-Oldland who then made mincemeat of the monkey bars. “Hills have been operating in the Cotswold Water Park area for over 100 years and have created many of the lakes and wonderful habitats you see in this area today. We are proud to support Cotswold Lakes Trust in the projects they undertake to enhance biodiversity and community engagement,” said Mr Andrew.