YOUNGSTERS got into the swing of a new £120,000 play area when it was officially opened to the public.

The Mayor of Pendle, Coun Dorothy Lord, was on hand to count down the opening of the new facility in Marsden Park, which took six weeks to complete.

The play area, below the lower tennis courts, is the first project to be completed as part of the £1.5million restoration of the park. Kevin Singleton, Marsden Park landscape restoration project manager, said: "It's fantastic to see the first stage of the restoration completed.

"The play area includes a four-metre cargo net, aerial runway and inclusive play equipment suitable for children of all ages and abilities." Other special guests invited to the event included children from Castercliffe, Townhouse and St John's primary schools.

They were involved in the consultation process about the play equipment.

They were joined by ward councillors Dorothy Ormrod and Gary Rowland, Coun Mahboob Ahmed and Coun David Foster, chairman of the council's Nelson Area Committee.

Coun Ahmed, said: "The complete restoration of Marsden Park, including the restoration of Marsden Hall for community purposes, will ensure it is enjoyed for many generations to come.

"It's a fantastic project that has been funded thanks to the Heritage Lottery, Pendle Council and the Nelson Area Committee."

In total, 13 projects will be undertaken between 2004 and 2008 to return the park to its former glory.

The renovation of Marsden Old Hall, dating from 1650, will be at the centre of the restoration.

It will provide community and education rooms, including internet access, meeting rooms and toilet facilities.

Other projects include relocating the sensory garden; developing a marsh area to encourage wildlife into the park and new seating and signs.