The new play area at Frome's Old Showfield officially opened on Thursday 28th March, with pupils from Critchill School and Selwood Academy on hand to cut the ribbon and try out the new equipment.

Frome's new town crier Martin Scott was at the opening with a hearty cry about the new park, which didn't quite stop the rain, but the mood was celebratory as the fencing came down and the young people took their first steps into the park.

Mayor Philip Campagna, who cut the ribbon with Critchill student Alfie Doman, said: "We had hoped to open this wonderful new park last November, but as everyone knows, there has been rain, rain and more rain.

And true to form, it rained for the opening…but the planting has had some time to establish and we're heading for the drier part of the year, so fingers crossed there will be many lovely days for everyone to enjoy the new park.

"It was great to see the park so well used over the Easter weekend.

"Thank you to everyone at FTC who made it happen, to the people who shared their thoughts and ideas and to Green Play Project for turning them into reality.

Alfie Doman judged the play area 'awesome' and said he looked forward to coming back with his classmates soon.

Ali Montero, designer at Green Play Project, said "With an emphasis on community, inclusivity and nature, the brief for the Old Showfield site excited the team at Green Play Project from the very start.

"Throughout the design process, it was wonderful meeting with various community groups to hear their thoughts and adapt the designs to suit their needs.

"We recognised that communal ownership is important to Frome, so we included features such as a long sharing table, edible planting zones and a non-programmed stage for locals to use as they wish.

"Being inclusive of every age, gender and ability was incredibly important too, so we created different zones in the playground that cater to different types of play, from active and sociable spaces to spaces for quiet contemplation. We also carefully selected surfacing and specific equipment to enable easy access for all.

"What's more, the new planting in the playground improves the biodiversity in the area, welcoming in nature and embracing native vegetation and wildlife.

"Frome Town Council were a pleasure to work with and we hope you all enjoy playing in the new playground as much as we enjoyed making it!"

Stay up to date with plans for Frome's network of green spaces at https://www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/our-community/parks-and-green-spaces.