WORK has started on the creation of a new Aqua Play facility in Morecambe's Happy Mount Park.

The water play area, due to open in May, will replace the former paddling pool and aims to provide a safe and exciting' facility for children of all ages.

It will be one of the biggest aqua parks in the region - and admission will be free, says Lancaster City Council.

Originally developed in the USA, Aqua Parks are becoming popular in the UK and are seen as a safe alternative to ageing pools.

An aqua arch, water fences, and a fill'n'spill feature are among the interactive water jets, sprays and cannons that will make up the play area in Happy Mount Park.

The surface of the aqua park will be soft, similar to play ground safety flooring.