We declare this playground open

by Martin Currie

As Lena Ali and Rose Almond cut ribbons on the two gates to the refurbished Abbeyfield Park playground, the entire Firs Hill Out of School club descended on the new play equipment. Gaby Spinks, one of the organisers of the refit, handed out balloons donated by SureStart and Little Red Light Ltd.

“It’s amazing what you can achieve with a bit of persistent nagging,” she said. As a member of Friends of Abbeyfield Park, along with regeneration officer Rachael Peacock and a group of local parents, she nagged the Council and Burngreave Green Environment Project into spending nearly £50,000 on new equipment and safe surfaces.

Despite poor weather and having all their tools stolen, Pennine Playgrounds finally finished the job in time for the half-term holidays. We now have a fantastic amenity – many thanks to all concerned. Come and play.

If you want to become a Friend of Abbeyfield Park please call Green City Action on 244 0353.