CHILDREN have been swinging for joy after a new £22,000 play area was opened in Kington St Michael, near Chippenham,

Villagers have been working hard over the last four years to raise funds for the new equipment, and the Recreation Field Working Group has held many events including two hog roasts, a rock 'n' roll night, a 70s disco and a bonfire night party.

Money was also given by the parish council, North Wiltshire District Council, the National Lottery, GWR and Viridor Waste Management.

Working group secretary Lucy Watts-Jones said the facility was already proving popular.

"The playground is now being really well used by all the local children," she said.

The playground, with its new climbing frame and net, was officially opened by parish council chairman Robin Duckett at a ceremony last week.

Villagers are now raising funds to replace the fencing around the play area. They want to plant hedging and put up new wooden fencing. They also hope to plant some trees.

Children have been without a proper play area for several years .

The previous out-of-date equipment had to be removed for safety reasons by the parish council leaving just one slide.