PEOPLE power has brought a haven of safe play into the heart of a local community.

Parents and residents in Brandlesholme have long campaigned for a proper play area, and their calls have prompted the council to act.

The first phase of the new area, at the front of the recently closed Brandlesholme CP School, has officially opened. It was partly paid for with a £5,000 grant from the Bury West area board.

And pictured trying out one of the rides are brother and sister Emily (4), and Sam (7) Heap of Trimingham Drive, Bury. However, there is still uncertainty over when the second and third phases, equipment for disabled children, and a kickabout area, will be built.

Councillors promise that they will, but it depends on what deal is struck with developers who are trying to buy the former school site.

Councillor Bob Bibby, area board chairman, said: "It was the local Residents' Association which made it clear to us that a play area was desperately needed in Brandlesholme.

"Although the council has a policy of play area refurbishment and improvement, creating new ones is not as common.

"With the money through the area board it has been possible to get this much needed facility completed and I am sure that local children will thoroughly enjoy it."

Elton Labour councillor Ray Watts promised that further phases of the play area, including equipment for disabled children and a kickabout area, were in the pipeline.

He added: "For the moment there is a safe and secure area for children to play and I am sure that will be a relief to parents and grandparents alike."