WORK is due to start in May on a much-needed park in Melksham. The Methuen Park on the Forest Estate will have a bike track, ball shoot and adventure trails as well as a roundabout designed for disabled children.

Town councillor Vic Oakman said: "It will be really good for the community and will provide facilities not just for toddlers, but for children from eight to 15."

A total of £48,000 has been raised through grants from Living Spaces, West Wiltshire District Council, the town council and landfill tax credit.

The park has in the past proved to be a magnet for troublesome youths, with the town council even being forced to lock the gates at night after empty bottles and drug equipment were found there.

It is hoped that the new facilities will provide an environment that will give young children somewhere safe to play and dissuade older youths from wanting to hang around there.

Cllr Oakman said: "I am sure if you give them something to respect they will look after it.

"It is a pretty major project for the Forest estate. It has been about everyone pulling together."