FUNDING BOOST FOR RURAL PLAY AREA

A community-run rural play area which enables children to play safely has received a funding boost.

Nestled on the edge of the village that lies between Malton and Helmsley, the Hovingham Community Playground provides a focal point for locals and visitors alike and, as is often the case with community facilities, only exists thanks to the dedicated hard work of a handful of local volunteers.

Tombolas, jumble sales, a duck race, village café and annual calendar are all used as ways to raise funds but with maintaining the grounds alone now costing almost £1,000 a year it’s becoming increasingly more challenging.

So, a grant of £400 from Broadacres Housing Association’s Community Development Fund has been greatly welcomed by the villagers.

“This generous grant will make a huge difference,” said volunteer Deborah Hugill. “It will go towards covering the cost of grass cutting and hedge trimming for the next year and allow us to use our own fundraising on park equipment.”

Deborah and a small core of others keep the playground going, supported by an annual call to arms which sees the village unite for a day of action to get the playground ready for the busy summer season.

One field has a set of goalposts for children to have a kickabout or runaround whilst the other field has a zip wire, traditional playground equipment and a wooden fort allowing children to let their imaginations run wild.

“Our playground is open to everyone all year round and we have been mindful to try and include sensory activities, educational elements as well as seating and of course play areas and structures,” said Deborah.

“It’s an integral part of the village that we all want to keep going and this grant has given us a real boost.”

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents.

Other local organisations interested in applying to the fund can visit www.broadacres.org.uk/customer-area/getting-involved/community-development-fund/