CHILDREN who helped select equipment for a £100,000 play area revamp were thrilled to declare the site officially open recently.

Shropshire Council, alongside Ellesmere Town Council, invited pupils from Ellesmere Primary School to join in the celebration at Cremorne Gardens, adjacent to the town's Mere.

The pupils had been an integral part of the process as they actively participated in helping the council select the new play equipment.

In a commitment to enhancing the area, Shropshire Council invested a substantial £100,000 in the play area and a newly established kiosk offering refreshing treats to visitors.

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Robert Macey, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for culture and digital, said: “We are delighted the play area is opened in time for children to enjoy over the summer holidays.

“It was great to welcome some of the pupils from Ellesmere Primary School, who helped canvass opinion from their classmates over what equipment we should actually provide, here too.

“The Mere and its attractions are free to use and offer a great day out for people looking for something healthy to do outdoors this summer.”

The schoolchildren had the opportunity to study four different design proposals, and the final result is a culmination of their collaborative efforts.

Judging by the excitement displayed by the children during the opening ceremony, it is evident that the play area will be a resounding success.

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Geoff Elner, Shropshire councillor for Ellesmere Urban, expressed his pride in the collaborative achievement.

He said: “This has been a real community effort and I am so proud of what has been achieved.

"It isn’t the end of our plans, there’s more to come.”

The newly unveiled play equipment at Cremorne Gardens offers an exciting range of features, including a captivating climbing tower, swings, a toddler climbing frame, a sandpit, and an accessible roundabout.

Rob added: “We have worked in partnership to improve what is already a much-loved attraction, and we hope that the people of Ellesmere and the thousands of people who visit the Mere each year will benefit.”