Ecchinswell childen's play park dedicated to mother-of-three
£31,000 refurbishment thanks to determined efforts
A REFURBISHED children’s play park in Ecchinswell has been dedicated to the mother-of-three whose determined efforts saw it built 15 years ago.
Mandy’s Play Park is named after Mandy Sainsbury, the woman instrumental in setting up and funding the area at Ecchinswell Village Hall, and she was present on Saturday, September 12, to declare the new-look park officially open.
Karen Griffiths, a spokeswoman for the village hall committee, said: “She used to live in Ecchinswell and while being part of the Ecchinswell Village Hall Committee – as well as a mum of three small children – she felt the village, mums and children needed a play park.
“So she started a team to set up some fundraising – and two years later the play park became a reality.
“Now the village has a park for all the children and mums to enjoy.
“Mandy’s Play Park is testament to Mandy Sainsbury and the village is delighted to recognise her hard work and determination, by dedicating the play park to her.
“Well done to a determined lady who cared enough to make a difference.”
The newly-refurbished park opened on Saturday and children from Ecchinswell and Sydmonton Primary School choir sang to mark the occasion.
Children then bounded in, keen to burn up some energy trying out the new facilities, which include a zip wire.
A fun day and celebrations then got under way, with entertainment including a bouncy castle, children’s races and a pram race, alongside tasty treats, including a bake off and hog roast.
The play park was funded by contributions, including £15,956 from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, £14,656 from Greenham Common Trust and other unspecified contributions.
Building on the successful opening, the Ecchinswell Village Hall committee has organised a Masquerade Ball, from 7pm on Saturday at the hall.
There will be a live band, Stylus, casino, cocktail bar, raffle, silent auction, a photo booth and a barbecue supplied by the Royal Oak pub in the village.
Tickets are £15 for one person or £25 for two, and are available at the Royal Oak or by calling (01635) 297122.
A rugby lounge will also be available in the hall for all enthusiasts who want to watch England’s match against Wales.
