CHILDREN attending the St Helen Auckland Gala tomorrow will be among the first to try out new play facilities on Middlewood Green.

Improvements to the play area cost £60,000 and were funded from section 106 contributions.

Additions include a timber trail, new swings, a rocking horse, climbing net, climbing rocks, a castle-themed playhouse and activity panels.

Joanne Morley, project officer at Groundwork North East, said the improvements had been suggested by the Middlewood Green Steering Group in 2008.

She said:" We consulted with families in the village to find out what they needed at the play area and what the children enjoyed and we hope that the new facilities will be a fun and stimulating experience for children and families."

The gala starts at 12noon.