DOCKENFIELD villagers have backed plans to purchase 1.75 acres of new ‘open recreational space’ next to the village playing field in The Street.

Work is already under way to raise the £25,000 needed to buy the land by the end of March, after Dockenfield Parish Council’s proposal was “unanimously backed” at the villagers’ meeting in early December.

The land adjoins the field where the Dockenfield Day village fete is held every June.

A statement on the council’s website reads: “While Dockenfield Parish Council hasn’t yet consulted or agreed on exactly how the land will be used, this is a truly unique opportunity for all of us to create something of real value for current residents and leave a lasting legacy for future Dockenfield generations.

“But the council needs your help to raise a total of £25,000 by the end of March 2017. We’ve already had promises of approximately £10,000 (including monies from Dockenfield Parish Council) but we need to raise the last £15,000 very urgently.

“Donations so far have ranged from a few pounds to several thousand pounds but every contribution counts.”

Anyone wishing to donate towards the land purchase should email [email protected] or call 07881 932363.