The grand unveiling of a new playground designed by schoolchildren was officially opened by South West Beds MP, Andrew Selous.
Thrift Road Recreation Ground, in Heath and Reach was finally declared open on Tuesday after two years of tireless fundraising to make the facility possible.
Organiser Sara Gordon said: “The community really pulled together with the events that were organised during the two years of fundraising. It has been a real community event.”
The new playground, which needed a £50,000 grant and various fundraising activities to achieve, was attended by teachers and pupils from St Leonards VA Lower and The Barn Pre-school and featured music from the African Drummers of Gilbert Inglefield Middle School.
Speaking at the event, Andrew Selous MP said: “It is just fantastic to see so many happy children and families.
“It is the start of the summer holidays so it’s great for all the mums and dads who have now got a really good facility on their doorstep for their children to have loads of fun.
“It is one of rthe best playgrounds I have seen for a long time. It is really high quality, so lets hope it is not vandalised and that people have lots of fun.”
Councillor Mark Versallion said: “So much hard work goes into these kind of community projects so to see everyone enjoying it and being here together is really rewarding.
“I think in many walks of life so much work goes on that is unseen and to have everyone come together to acknowledge that and give their thanks and applause is very heartwarming and humble to see when it happens.
“I am extremely impressed with the effort that has been put into this with the funding and the organisation of people, many of whom are voluntary.”