A transformed play area at Peel Park, Accrington now boasts a cableway, basket swing, modern climbing frame and large rotator for local children to enjoy.

The upgrade follows the Friends of Arden Hall and the Coppice being awarded a £30,000 grant by the Lancashire Environmental Fund to extend and improve the existing playground.

The grant was combined with donations from Hyndburn council, Huncoat and Peel and Barnfield area councils and Friends of Arden Hall to facilitate a final £60,000 refurbishment.

Coun Joyce Plummer, of the Friends of Arden Hall and the Coppice, said: “It’s great to see the play area open now, it’s a big hit with families and has been very popular since it was opened. This new play area upgrade complements years of investment into Peel Park and the surrounding area to improve footpaths into the local countryside and to the summit of the dominating hill in East Accrington.”

Friends of Arden Hall and the Coppice next meet on June 25 at 6.30pm at the Peel Park Pub, Accrington.

There are also opportunities for volunteering including tree planting and wildlife surveying. Call Mark Pickup on 01254 388111.