A VILLAGE play area has swung into action.

The recreation ground was opened in West Avenue, Chester Moor, County Durham, and almost every child in the community turned out for the occasion.

The opening of the area by the leader of Chester-le-Street District Council, Councillor Linda Ebbatson, follows the adoption of a play strategy by the authority.

The council has funded the venture and consultations are in progress for the provision of further play facilities in other areas within the district.

Before the refurbishment of the West Avenue area there were meagre play facilities on the ground, which included a 1973 swing and an out-of-date slide.

Now the recreation area has modern play equipment for children up to 12 years old and more than 50 youngsters went with their families on Wednesday to try them for themselves.

The afternoon of festivities included a penalty shoot out and a series of mini games.