COLEMAN'S Farm Residents' Association has overcome the odds to get a much needed playground on its estate.

Work started on the £45,000 facility the week of October 30 and Calne town councillor Mercy Baggs said it wouldn't have been possible without the efforts of association chairman Vicky Waite who has spearheaded the fundraising campaign.

"As David took on Goliath that is what Vicky has done. All the credit for this must go to her," said Coun Baggs.

Mrs Waite said: "This has been something we've been trying to get for at least two years.

"We can't keep complaining about kids misbehaving when there's nothing for them to do and now they finally have their playground."

There have been many hurdles in the fight for the facility, including opposition from residents who feared it would cause noise and drainage problems.

The playground, which is next to Pym House, has been paid for by North Wiltshire District Council, Westlea Housing Association and Wiltshire Rural Initiatives, as well as other organisations and Calne Town Council, which has paid £10,000 towards maintenance for the next five years.

The association's next goal is to try and buy empty shops at Angel Close and turn them into a community centre.

Mrs Waite said: "People don't talk to each other as much as they used to and we need to get them together and be more of a community."