PHASE one of the new playground at Merton was officially opened on Saturday by Lady Clinton.

As the sun shone the children celebrated the new equipment in their own way.

Lady Clinton made a short speech thanking the committee and the various grant giving bodies. She was presented with a lovely posy by Ruby and the children.

Members of the committee expressed thanks to all who have helped, from those who took part and helped in fundraising events to the larger grant giving bodies: Lottery Awards for All and the Coastal Communities Recycling Fund. Also the Merton Moncks, Lord Clinton’s Charitable Trust and the parish council.

Now the hard work begins — fundraising for phase two.

Fundraising for phase two is now underway — this phase will be for the older children aged eight and upwards. The cost will be approximately the same as phase one, which was £36,000.

Any offers of help or ideas for fundraising will be welcomed. The committee is holding another Pudding and Quiz evening on September 8.