As children’s play areas re-open, youngsters in a Norwich suburb were given something new to enjoy on their return.

Eastern Daily Press: New play equipment unveiled at Hellesdon Recreation Ground. Picture: Natasha CarverNew play equipment unveiled at Hellesdon Recreation Ground. Picture: Natasha Carver (Image: Natasha Carver)

Having been closed off during the lockdown, two play areas in Hellesdon have re-opened with additional features, installed by Hellesdon Parish Council while the sites were off limits.

New equipment has been installed at both Hellesdon Recreational Ground and the Meadow Way play area, in a £66,000 restoration project.

The projects were agreed ahead of the pandemic, however, with the sites closed until July 4, children are being given their first opportunity to use them this weekend.

The new features include a train and ticket office role-playing toy in the recreation ground - which was officially re-opened by Norwich North MP Chloe Smith.

Eastern Daily Press: New play equipment unveiled at Hellesdon Recreation Ground. Picture: Natasha CarverNew play equipment unveiled at Hellesdon Recreation Ground. Picture: Natasha Carver (Image: Natasha Carver)

She said: “This is really fantastic news for the young people of Hellesdon - to have brand new facilities to play and a place for families to enjoy as the lockdown is lifted will help bring life back to our community.”