A DERELICT area has been transformed into a community facility as part of an environmental project.

The Hearts, Spades and Muddy Shoes initiative saw young families in North Ormesby working together to create a much-needed play area.

The enterprising team, with support from the One Planet Middlesbrough: Creating Sustainable Communities project, cleared the site and used a variety of recycled materials to turn a small disused area into Kildale Corner.

One Planet Middlesbrough community volunteer Cheryl Dixon said: “There was a small fenced area that was the site of persistent fly-tipping, which could have been so much better used.

“We gathered a small group of volunteers who cleared the rubbish and moved the fence line, so we could access the space.

“We’ve been adding to it ever since, with more and more people getting involved.

“It’s great to see neighbours meet and to have a space for our children to play safely and close to home.”

Help was also received from North Ormesby Community Hub and from a local Accent advocate, who helped the group access funding from both Accent and Thirteen through their ‘Better Communities’ scheme.

Aimed at young people and families, the site features seaside-themed games tables and sensory boards, with old tyres recycled into mini planters for families to grow fruit and vegetables.

Further planned works at Kildale Corner include the planting of trees to create new wildlife habitats and improve the view for residents.