THE sun shone brightly as youngsters enjoyed the reopening of a Middlesbrough park that has undergone a £315,000 revamp.

Work has transformed Laycock Park from an under-used area into a vibrant green space for residents to enjoy for generations to come.

Youngster Samantha Snail started the fun-packed day of activities and events, which had an environmental theme to mark the official opening on Saturday.

The new lease of life was made possible thanks to £240,000 funding from West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust (WMNT), as well as £60,000 from Barratt Homes and £15,000 from environmental charity React.

The open day, on Saturday, included crafts, story-telling and a five-a-side football competition.

WMNT chairman Joan Ford said: "We want as many people as possible to celebrate this fantastic new facility. The area has been transformed and we want the community to really take ownership of the park and look after it so that it can be enjoyed for years to come."

WMNT has worked with the Friends of Laycock Park group to develop the plans, following consultation with residents.

This has included a survey of park users, leaflet drops, questionnaires and visits to schools and community centres to get everyone's views on its revival.

The park now has a dog exercise area, improved entrances and several new mature trees along its boundary.

Future plans include a small BMX and skate boarding area.