THE sun shone down as more than 60 families gathered at Burford Lodge Recreation Ground at Elstead at the end of term to celebrate the unveiling of new play equipment that Elstead Parish Council has recently installed.

The new equipment will sit alongside the current range of play items. Joan Holroyd (chair of the playgrounds sub-committee) worked closely with the community in establishing their needs and has chosen items that are suitable for all ages and abilities.

These items include a zip wire, a nest swing and a multi play climbing frame ideal for younger children.

Pat Murphy (chair of the parish council) welcomed the many families who attended and thanked Joan Holroyd and the clerk for their hard work in completing the project.

Mr Murphy said: “The parish council has been saving hard for three years to fund this much-needed project.

“I am also delighted to report that we have received some very generous donations from Waverley Borough Council, Surrey County Council, Tesco Bags for Help and The Spar, which have all contributed to the early realisation of this project and we are very grateful for this support.”

David Harmer, for Surrey County Council, added: “I am very pleased to hear that the parish council has been able to improve the recreational ground in this way and delighted that Surrey could help support this wonderful project.”

Jenny Else, Waverley portfolio holder for health, well-being and culture, attended the event and cut the ribbon, allowing Isabella Williams and Emily Waite to have the first official ride on the new zip wire.

“This has been a fantastic, very well-organised event. I am really delighted to see so many families present, enjoying their picnics while children of all ages and abilities can play safely in this beautiful outdoor space,” she said.

“I am pleased that Waverley could help finance this very worthwhile project. I hope that this lovely end of term picnic can become a new tradition”

Families stayed for many hours enjoying the sunny, outdoor space while enjoying treats from the ice-cream van.