The October half-term saw the new play park at Whitebridge Spinney, Laverstock officially opened.

It was opened by Nick Baker, Chairman of Laverstock and Ford Parish Council, and Councillor Jones Vice-chair, assisted by local children.

One of the highlights of the event was a treasure hunt. The younger children searched for autumn-themed objects, while the older children hunted for pine cones with letters on them.

(Image: Juliet Brain)

Samuel Jones, who lives on Riverbourne Road near the Whitebridge Spinney Park, said: “I enjoyed the fact that there were lots of other kids there, and the fun treasure hunt". 

Joe Elder, Operations Manager for the Laverstock & Ford Parish Council, added: “We are delighted to have been able to replace the old play park with something modern, and accessible with inclusive sensory play equipment. We have also taken note of the ‘Make Space for girls’ campaign, and been able to create an area beside the play park that is more attractive to girls”. 

"The play park was designed by Wicksteed who have been designing play parks for over a hundred years, their founder Charles Wicksteed declared that a Play Ground should not be put in a corner behind railings, but in a conspicuous and beautiful part of a Park, free to all, where people can enjoy the play and charming scenery at the same time; where mothers can sit, while they are looking on and caring for their children.”

Cllr Laura Jones added “The investment of £95k in renewing this area further enhances Whitebridge Spinney which forms part of the Farm & Spinney Nature Trail which children and families can enjoy throughout the seasons.

"The Nature Trail which begins at River Bourne Community Farm, takes people across the Laverstock Water Meadows managed by the Devenish Bradshaw Charitable Trust, and back around the Spinney, and it provides the opportunity to learn and discover more about the local wildlife, and ecology. Whitebridge Spinney is a wonderful area for summer picnics and play”.