NEW equipment at an award-winning play area was given a test run before the extended attraction is opened to the public this summer.

The extension to the play area is set to open next week, ahead of schedule.

Members of the West Bay Play Area Consultation Group had the opportunity to try the new equipment last week ahead of the official opening in July.

People of all ages, from Mountjoy School, the Fisherman's Arms and the Flood Lane day centres, filled the play area that they had helped to create and labelled it a resounding success.

Wheelchair user Ria Mitcham had been involved in selecting the swing that can be used by both the able-bodied and those with a disability.

She said: “This is brilliant.

"I haven’t been on a swing since I was six years old.”

Lead worker at the Fisherman's Arms Day Centre, Susan Cosma, said: “A big thank you for giving us the opportunity to test run the extended play area.

"We all had a great time and feedback is, when are we going again?”

Work on the play area has progressed quicker than expected and will be ready well before the official opening on Thursday July 7. In fact, the “unofficial” opening will be in time for next week’s half-term break. Users are asked to remember that the whole play area is open to people of all ages and all abilities.

The “official” opening on Thursday, July 7 will take place at 12pm, and will involve an appearance by paralympian and world champion runner Paul Blake. Paul will be assisted by a representative of each of the four consultation groups as well as the town crier, John Collingwood.

The West Bay Play Area development initiative is a partnership between Bridport Town Council and the Bridport Young Persons Action Trust (BYPAT).

Earlier this month, the development group was awarded £14,600 - which will go towards creating sensory art work for the play area.