New Bunbury £250,000 playground officially opens

Bunbury residents have celebrated the opening of the village’s new £253,000 playground.

The community-led project, which has been three years in the making, boasts a zip wire, wooden climbing ship, mud kitchen and a miniature Beeston Castle.

The playground, in the Jubilee Playing Fields, was officially opened by a knight in shining armour on the park’s new all-purpose running track.

Special guest CBBC presenter Katie Thistleton was also be there with many of the people who played a part in delivering the project.

Three years ago, a group of village mums joined forces with the vision to create a community space for the village.

They consulted with Bunbury Aldersey Primary School, the Scouts, the Guides, disability groups and residents.

Beth Hayward, chair of the playground committee, said: “We wanted everyone to feel part of this project.

“It’s been fantastic to see people for all walks to life with lots of different skills join together to make this happen.

“This area has such a rich cultural history and we’ve been able to bring this to life for future generations through the park’s Knights and Castle theme.

“It’s not just going to stop now that the playground is open.

“We’ve secured funding for ongoing events such as weaving workshops, story-telling time as well as a range of boot camps for all ages; stroll and stretch for OAPs, and buggy fitness.

“It’s a space for all Bunbury residents to enjoy, not just children.

“A place where residents can build connections and enjoy the great outdoors.”

Funds were raised through community events, sponsorship from local businesses such as The Yew Tree, Peckforton Castle and Iceland, as well as grants from the National Lottery, WREN’s FCC Community Action Fund, The Veolia Environmental Trust and The Haberdashers.

At the opening, there was live music from local singers, The Mac Bros, an Easter egg hunt, sculpting workshops and knight school as well as food and drink from local businesses, Tilly’s and The Yew Tree.

Bunbury community groups and school children buried time capsules to commemorate the day.