Volunteers behind the upkeep of Ribchester’s popular park and play area have launched a fundraising drive as plans emerge to replace ageing play equipment.
Ribchester Playing Field Trust, the charity which manages the park, was successful in its application to the Ribble Valley Shared Prosperity Fund for a grant to replace the wooden climbing frame at the centre of the play area.
Installed in the late 1980s, the climbing frame, along with some pieces of play equipment, are starting to show their age after years of wear and tear.
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Now the playing field trust is calling for additional donations, either from individuals or local businesses, to boost vital cash reserves.
With September’s annual duck race raising funds, the charity also has a JustGiving page which people can use to support the trust.
Ben Briggs, chairman of Ribchester Playing Field Trust, said: “Ribchester park, or ‘The Rec’ as locals know it, is at the heart of the village and welcomes thousands of visitors every year.
“The grant funding approval from Ribble Valley Council provides a once in a generation opportunity to replace and reinvigorate the main pieces of play equipment on The Rec and we are over the moon to have that opportunity.
“However, the more money we have at our disposal, the more ambitious we can be with the project and ensure that the play equipment continues to bring joy to those who head to the village.”
Designs and quotes for the new climbing frame are currently being obtained from suppliers and will be presented to the village later in the summer. The aim is that work will be completed on the park by spring 2027.
The land for the play area was gifted to the village almost 100 years ago by the Openshaw family and has been in trust and run by volunteers ever since. It receives no direct regular council funding and is totally reliant on donations for its upkeep.
Tickets for the duck race, which takes place on the River Ribble on Sunday, 6 September at 4pm, can be bought online or, alternatively, from Ribchester Playing Field Trust volunteers. Individual or corporate duck race tickets can be bought via the Crowdfunder site.
Likewise, further donations can be made by visiting the trust’s JustGiving page and the trust’s Facebook page is available by clicking here: Ribchester Playing Field Trust.
