A NEGLECTED children's play area has been transformed thanks to the hard work of villagers.

The playground in Morton-on-Swale has been given a facelift after a two-year campaign by the community.

The Morton Ainderby and Thrintoft Playing Field Association was formed in 2002 to improve the park and play equipment after it had become rundown.

Association member Julie Walker said: "Two years ago the park was fit to be condemned.

"The goalposts were dangerous, the climbing frame was an eyesore with faded paint, and the safety flooring had gaps in.

"Fundraising was a slow progress. With so few members to draw on, it was always all hands to the pumps, but we kept going and we have had a lot of support from the community.

"It's now wonderful to see people enjoying it. On any night we get families having picnics and children enjoying themselves."

The community group raised nearly £3,000 towards the work and Hambleton District Council and the parish council provided a grant of more than £2,200.

The park now has a new swing and climbing trail, a repainted climbing frame, an area for cricket and three new benches.