It's the beginning of a new era for a much-treasured park and play area in Frome.

Following successful transfer talks between Mendip District Council and the Town Council, Egford Lane Park is now in local hands.

Mendip held the park since 1974. Frome Town Council will now be responsible for the day-to-day running of the three-acre site, and any future improvements.

The District Council agreed to transfer the open, green space to local people for a nominal rent under a 99-year lease, on condition it remains for community use only. This means the site is secured for young and old to enjoy for generations to come.

In addition to the long lease and 'no change permitted' clause at the park, which is situated just off Broadway in the town, Mendip has granted allotments to be allowed at the park. This is to future-proof the space for future uses, if that is what the town decides.

Leader of Mendip District Council, Cllr Ros Wyke, said: "Frome residents are rightly proud of their park.

"They love and value it. Mendip District Council is therefore delighted to be able to offer the Frome community a long lease on this substantial, beautiful, site.

"We know the Town Council will make excellent stewards and will encourage even more residents to use this precious space, now that extended provisions have been made within the transfer terms.

"The park is surrounded by houses. A wide range of families have access to it and make good use of this popular park – and long may this continue."

Mayor of Frome, Andy Wrintmore, said: "I am so pleased that this park is secured particularly for the young people of Frome.

"The Friends of Egford Park have already made excellent headway in how they would like the space used and will retain its use as a play and recreational space.

"There are currently no plans for allotments on this space, however, in the future, other generations may choose to use the space differently and it is always good to have options."

The Egford Lane Park announcement follows another recent asset transfer in the town. Earlier this month, Mendip District Council, returned the historic Boyle Cross and paved area in Market Place to Frome residents, along with a £9,000 maintenance contribution for the 1871 fountain.