A NEW children's play area has opened in Middlesbrough following parents' concerns about a lack of a safe play area. Mothers and fathers on Middlesbrough's Thorntree estate have worked with Middlesbrough Council and other partners to raise funds and draw up plans.

The group secured £120,000 from neighbourhood renewal funds and from European money, and a further £35,000 in other donations.

Middlesbrough councillor Bob Brady attended the opening of the play area.

The money has meant completion of phase one of the plan. The Friends of Thorntree Park are now preparing a follow-up phase - an area for teenagers.