Appeal to raise £35,000 for new park in Market Overton

Villagers in Market Overton are teaming up with the Lodge Trust to build a new play area to replace the current playground, which after 17 years of use, needs to be replaced.

The Lodge Trust provide accommodation, workshops and training facilities for adults with learning disabilities, and have, in recent years, developed a beautiful country park, as well as a popular cafe in the heart of the village.

The new play area will be cited at The Lodge Trust and will hopefully benefit even more people than the current facilities, thanks to the parking facilities and amenities there.

One of the villagers behind the project Lisa Barnett said: “Our vision for the new play area is to have a really wide range of play equipment for all ages and abilities to enjoy.

“It’ll be a wonderful, safe environment for children to enjoy, and parents too will definitely benefit from being able to use the wonderful Country Park Cafe – from a cup of tea and slice of homemade cake to delicious breakfasts and scrumptious lunches.”

The Lodge Trust is equally delighted to be involved in the playground’s relocation.

Heather from the trust said: “We already have large beautiful country park that locals and visitors enjoy – including a circular pathway with woodland walk and popular mud kitchen enjoyed by many children.

“We are thrilled to be able to further develop the park for even more families to enjoy whilst retaining areas that will still be natural and tranquil.”

Local playground designer Lewis Baines, from Playscape Playgrounds, is also on board and according to Lisa is generously providing the equipment at a reduced cost.

Lisa added: “This will include some fantastic things to play on such as a zip wire, swings for all ages as well as a fun birds nest swing, a climbing stack for older children, and a trim trail.”

The team now needs the help of the local community to raise the money for the equipment, which will cost £35,000.

Lisa said: “We’d love to get local businesses involved and are happy to give sponsors the recognition they deserve for helping us to provide these much-needed facilities.”

To get involved, email Lisa on [email protected] or call 07958 521401.