CHILDREN at a village playgroup are having more outside fun, thanks to a council grant.

Hutton Rudby Playgroup and Pre-School were awarded £500 by Hambleton District Council to purchase a new wooden fort and slide.

The money for the outdoor play equipment came from the authority’s Investing in Communities fund.

Joy Sanderson, manager of the playgroup, said the grant has replaced uninspiring plastic play equipment with stimulating natural materials which will enhance the environment.

“The new equipment meets the needs and requirements of the early year’s framework which we have to follow,” she said.

“It encourages children’s enjoyment of their physical development. Our youngsters can’t wait to play outside now.”

The Investing in Communities fund has recently helped a wide range of projects in the district.

It directs funding at projects that seek to provide local solutions to local problems and which demonstrate community support.

It is now into its third year and has helped dozens of local projects and awarded in excess of £40,000.

For more information about the Hambleton fund contact development officer Peter Cole on 01609 767212.