DOCKENFIELD Parish Council is “within striking distance” of the £25,000 needed to purchase a 1.75 acre-plot of new public open space for the enjoyment of villagers.

It means the parish council can now start the process to buy the land, located next to the playing field in The Street where Dockenfield Day is held - simultaneously providing new recreational space and protecting the site from development.

Richard Blackburn, on behalf of Dockenfield Parish Council, told the April edition of the Dockenfield Newsletter: “We owe a huge thank you to all who have so unselfishly contributed time, money and expertise to this fund raising effort.

“But every pound still counts. If you’re thinking of giving, please act now.”

For more information visit the website dockenfieldpc.org.uk.