CHILDREN from Hale School celebrated the opening of their refurbished infant playground last Friday and said a huge 'thank you' to everyone who had supported their successful bid for funding from the Big Lottery Fund.

The playground was officially opened by Farnham, mayor Lucinda Fleming and children recited a poem of thanks before showing the mayor and parents around the playground, demonstrating the new games they have been able to play.

The school's play leader, Lena Edwards, said that the new playground "has really encouraged the children. They are learning to play games together and even the shy ones soon get involved."