YOUNGSTERS in a village near Easingwold finally have somewhere to play, following the completion of a £17,000 fun park.

Determined mothers in Helperby launched a massive fundraising effort because of a lack of children's facilities in the village.

Chief fundraiser Yvonne Peacock organised a variety of events during the last 18 months to reach the target.

These included a sponsored swim, darts competition, dances and a Valentines' ball.

Yvonne's team also successfully applied for a £7,500 Landfill Tax Credit grant and a £4,000 handout from Hambleton District Council.

The play facility is situated in front of the new village hall, which was completed three years ago.

It comprises a look-out tower, sit-on "springers", a "bendy" mirror, a slide, climbing frame and tunnel.

"There was nothing in Helperby for children," Yvonne told the Evening Press.

"The nearest facilities were in Easingwold and Alne, but it meant parents were forced to get in their cars in order to take their kids anywhere.

"The play area will be very well-used. The population has grown quite considerably over the last few years.

"I predict at least 200 children will use it on a regular basis."

Yvonne praised the hard work of village hall committee chairman, Peter Sowray, in bidding for the grants. "Everyone has really pulled together," she said.

"It will be great for the mums and toddlers group to be able to go outside to play during the summer rather than be stuck in the hall."

Villager Catherine Grasby said: "The new play park is great for the mothers in this village. We've been waiting for this for over 18 months."

The play park will be officially opened tomorrow, at 3.30pm. Villagers will be celebrating with a children's tea party and barbecue.

Updated: 09:24 Saturday, June 28, 2003