TO celebrate the centenary of the founding of the Rotary movement in 2005 the Rotary Club of Leigh decided on a project to help toddlers on a housing estate.
On Monday the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr Brian Jarvis, formally opened "The Rotary Play Garden" at Higher Folds Community Centre, Sterling Close, Higher Folds, Leigh.
The project, started in 2003, required one of the largest fund raising efforts The Rotary Club of Leigh has ever undertaken. The result is the transformation of a piece of rough ground into a state of the art play space for use by 0-5 year olds attending childcare and playgroup sessions at the centre.
The Rotary Club of Leigh has worked closely with AGAPE, the voluntary provider of services for young children and with the Community Centre Management Committee to ensure that the garden meets the vital outdoor play needs of children starting to explore their environment.
The project has been supported by Wigan Sure Start, Douglas Valley Community Chest and Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust. Representatives of these organisations were present at the ceremony.President of The Rotary Club of Leigh, Chris Stephenson said: "This wonderful facility could not have been provided without the generous support of the people and business community of Leigh."
The play garden provides sand play, an area for use of wheeled toys and shade for the youngest children. There is a delightful "wild" area, with a willow tunnel and boardwalk where the toddlers can safely enjoy the excitement of an imaginary walk in the forest.
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