Delight at new play area

Children at Thurlby Primary School had an exciting return to school when they were greeted by a new games area.

The previous village facility, which earned the nickname the cage, had been in place for 20 years and was looking tired and worn.

But thanks to the generosity of several community organisations, the schoolchildren are having a great time using their new £34,000 facility.

It is available for pupils to use during the school day and for the wider community to use out of school hours.

Headteacher Graham Clegg said: “On returning to school our children were very excited indeed to see the new games area. The work by members of Lawrance Park Committee to secure funding for this project has been challenging and on behalf of all children, staff and governors I would like to thank those involved for their hard work and commitment.”

Donations came from the Mick George Community Fund, the Postcode Lottery Local Trust, Awards For All, Thurlby Causeway Estate Charity, Bakkavor and South Kesteven District Council’s councillor Barry Dobson via the ward member grant fund.

The area can be used for tennis, netball, football and basketball.

Maggi Ogden, chairman of the Lawrance Park Recreation Ground and Community Association, said: “We have been aware for a number of years that the cage was in need of refurbishment and I know there will be many people in the village who will be thrilled to see this transformation and very keen to use it.”

Villager and pre-school teacher Sarah Austin said: “As a member of the community who used to play at Lawrance Park as a child, it is fantastic to see the cage being updated to encourage the next generation to play outside and hopefully benefit, mentally and physically, from developing healthy, active lifestyles and hobbies.”

Spokesman for Mick George Ltd, Stuart Costello, said the company was thrilled to support the project.

He said: “Over the years we have engaged with many education providers in various capacities, from a learning, environmental, safety and general health and wellbeing perspective.

“We’ve always taken great pleasure in working alongside both staff and pupils, and once again, it’s good to have played our part. I’m sure the new games area will be a great addition to the school and will be enjoyed for years to come.’’