An adventure playground has opened in Ballaughton Park, Douglas.

The lease to Lester’s Yard was handed over to Isle of Play chief executive officer Chris Gregory by the mayor in a ceremony where they were joined by children from Anagh Coar primary school.

Named in memory of Stuart Lester, a University of Gloucester lecturer and leading figure in the field of play, Lester’s Yard will be staffed by a team of Isle of Play play workers and aimed at children between the ages of four and 17.

The council has paid £50,000 to create Lester’s Yard. It has installed a cabin with toilet facilities, erected new boundary fencing, provided disabled access and created a car park next to Albany Lawn Tennis Club.

Regeneration and community committee chairman Councillor Stephen Pitts said: ’Play is recognised as vital to children’s development and fundamental to their physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

’I am therefore delighted that the council has entered into such a positive partnership with Isle of Play. This is a project which has brought together our respective skills and expertise to the long-term benefit of children and young people across the island.’

Council leader David Christian said: ’Play has the power to strengthen communities, an ambition the council shares and in which it is committed to investing.

’This partnership with Isle of Play reflects a core objective of the council’s corporate plan, namely to build a sense of community across the borough. It not only reinforces the council’s enlightened approach to delivering meaningful community services but also serves to strengthen the Isle of Man’s forward-thinking image and add to the list of firsts for Douglas.

’Lester’s Yard will provide a safe and secure setting where children can grow and develop life skills but above all, it will be a place where they can have fun.’

Isle of Play chief executive officer Chris Gregory said: ’We’re completely over the moon with how Lester’s Yard has come together; we couldn’t have asked for more from the council.

’Everybody has been so helpful and the communication has always been so positive and forward thinking. I think we’re all really excited to be working together to bring the first playground of its kind to the island’s children.

’From here on we have no little idea as to how the playground is going to take shape; that’s completely down to the children. But one thing is without doubt, it’s certainly going to be an exciting time for everyone involved.’