CHILDREN in southern Oxfordshire are delighted after getting the chance to try out a new playground.

Kingsmeadow Play area was unveiled by Brightwell-cum-Sotwell Parish Council, in the village between Wallingford and Didcot, earlier this month.

The local community won funding from Wren and Big Lottery Fund to build a new toddler play area and add an additional trim to the existing area.

An ‘adventure area’ for older children was also opened at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, watched by about 50 people.

Stephanie DiMassa, from the playground committee – a group of volunteer parents working with the parish council – said: “Loads of people are using the play area and they all seem to be loving it.

“As a strong community, where our children are at the heart, is was imperative that we provided play equipment that engenders and builds upon our historic village ethos.

“Inclusive designs, such as a spinning bowl for sensorial and motor stimulation which will help children with ADHD and autism, a puppet theatre that is wheelchair-accessible and the installation of mulch flooring to improve access for wheelchair users and children with walkers, are included.

“Families will benefit from a healthier, active and community-led social environment.”