Councillors try out the rides at new Millwey Rise play area

AXMINSTER’S new �100,000 play area has finally swung into action.

The state-of-the-art equipment, on the green behind the Millwey Rise shops, was officially opened by Devon County Council Chairman Christine Marsh, on Friday.

And she was amongst the first to try out the apparatus, taking a rope swing ride with Mayor Ron Jones and town and district councillor Douglas Hull.

The area has been paid for with �50,000 provided by local housing developers – under section 106 agreements - and a similar sum from the Government-funded Playbuilder Scheme.

Youngsters across the town were asked to help design the innovative and adventurous play area.

Hosting the opening, East Devon District Councillor Jill Elson, portfolio holder for communities, said: “This play area is the culmination of a successful partnership between EDDC and the people of Axminster, particularly those living in and around Millwey Rise.

“It is so important that the views of the young people, who will be enjoying the equipment, were taken into account. “This new, safe, facility is exactly what they wanted and I hope it will bring years of enjoyment to children living in the area.”