A PLAY area has been given a £80,000 overhaul in Mile End.

The plans for the playground, in Bergholt Road, are the brainchild of residents Stephen Pitt, Liz Riggs and Elaine Appleyard.

It was paid for using £6,862 from the Co-op Community Fund, £25,000 from the Environmental Trust, £28,500 from Colchester Council, £15,000 and £6,374 for the Community Initiatives Fund.

The money was used to give an old play area an overhaul, which includes swings, an aerial runway, trampoline, springers, supernova and sensory play items.

The equipment was chosen by residents and schoolchildren.

Martin Goss, of Myland Community Council, said: “It is fantastic to see the improved play area open.

“It is already very popular and will provide the younger members of our community with an outdoor facility where they can exercise, socialise, have fun and let their imaginations run wild.”

Annie Feltham, borough councillor for communities and leisure, said: “It is very impressive how the community in Myland has managed to secure so much funding from a number of different sources for their play area.

“It is a model for other community groups and a demonstration of the opportunities for funding that are available.”