West Berkshire recreation grounds get £6000 boost

The grant will be spent on improvements to the parks at Speen and Stockcross recreation grounds

TWO villages in West Berkshire have been awarded funding for improvements to their parks.

Fields in Trust has awarded a £6,000 grant to improve the facilities at the parks at Speen Recreation Ground and Stockcross Recreation Ground.

The two sites were given the funding after Speen Parish Council put them forward for the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

Both parks are owned by the parish council.

Speen Parish Council chairwoman, Meg John, said: "Speen Parish Council is proud to have achieved The Queen Elizabeth II Fields in Trust status for the Recreation Grounds in Speen and Stockcross, thereby protecting these important recreational facilities for future generations.

"The £6,000 grant will make a significant contribution towards the cost of the improvements currently planned by the council."

Chief executive of Fields in Trust, Alison Moore-Gwyn, said: "Saving outdoor space is crucial for the health and enjoyment of communities everywhere and I am delighted that Speen Parish Council is embracing the opportunity presented by the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge to protect, and improve Speen and Stockcross Recreation Grounds.

"By safeguarding these areas, the council has, by celebrating The Queen's Diamond Jubilee in this wonderful way, shown how much they value the quality of life of everyone in their community both now and in the future."