PLAYGROUND - Villagers have been handed more than £45,000 to build a new playground.

Slides, a bird’s nest swing, a climbing wall and frames, a play boat and a keep fit trail will all be built on the existing recreation site, with construction due to start next month.

The grant came from Groundwork UK and the Big Lottery Fund, which is on top of £10,000 given by Little Dewchurch Parish Council.

Carole Simpkins, chairman of Little Dewchurch Adventure Trail Group, said: “I am thrilled that we have finally been awarded the grant and I look forward to children from the village and surrounding areas coming to play here for many years to come.”