A GROUP of determined York parents are seeking £2,000 sponsorship so their campaign for a new village playground can get a major boost.

Members of the Escrick Playground Association(EPA) hope to have replaced the crumbling, 16-year-old village playground by next summer.

Events such as children's discos and cake stalls have raised a small amount of money so far.

But the association hopes a huge firework party in November will raise £4,000 for the fund.

The only problem is they need £2,000 sponsorship to pay for the fireworks.

EPA spokeswoman Samantha Bolsher said: "We haven't put any plans together for the playground design yet so there is no final fundraising target - we just want to raise as much as we can.

"The fireworks night, if it goes ahead, would be a great way to boost the funds - we just need that sponsorship.

"Doug Turner, a businessman from Bradford, has kindly agreed to donate his services in setting up the display for free, but obviously we need to pay for the fireworks.

"If any individual or business owner is prepared to help what is a very good cause we would be delighted to hear from them," Ms Bolsher added.

For more information, or to pledge sponsorship, ring Samantha on 07940 500631.

Updated: 11:48 Thursday, September 13, 2001