Aldborough youngsters are reaping the rewards of a village led campaign to refurbish a rundown play area after �27,000 of new equipment was unveiled.

The parish council, supported by residents from the village, successfully secured a grant from Norfolk County Council to overhaul the play area, just off the village green.

The old equipment had become rusted and unsafe and was torn down to make way for the new swings, slide and climbing frame, which is now being enjoyed by toddlers and teens from Aldborough and surrounding villages.

The project was dealt a minor blow when campaigners' original bid for �47,000 had to be slashed when the county council was hit with spending cuts, but villagers both young and old are thrilled with the new equipment.

Ruth Elliott, parish councillor, said: 'It was a team effort and the children love it. It just encourages children of all ages to get away from their computer screens and their TV screens to get physically active, and it's a great meeting point for parents and grandparents.

'It has been very well used so we're absolutely delighted with it. It's been a huge success.'

The play area will be officially opened by childrens author Tom Palmer next Wednesday .