Family fun day at play facility is a real hit

Paddlers Park, which was previously known as The Paddlers, has undergone a dramatic transformation – bringing back into use an area which sat dilapidated for many years.

The much-needed facelift has seen the removal of two disused paddling pools and the spruced-up facility now includes new landscaping and play features, including a water pump and cascade feature, improved footpaths and outdoor fitness equipment.

Sophie, The Countess of Wessex, visited the site and unveiled a special plaque last month, but Saturday gave people the chance to mark the transformation. The event also doubled up as a celebration for the Queen’s 90th birthday.

The family fun day was organised by the town council, while Amble Radcliffe Club provided games, inflatables and a disco.

Amble Deputy Mayor Coun Jane Dargue said: “The event was to celebrate the Queen’s birthday, but it was also the chance to have a fun day to invite everybody along and properly mark the opening of the play park.

“It was the first proper switching on of the water feature and it is proving really popular. We have had some great feedback about Paddlers Park. People seem to be enjoying it and it was nice to see a broad mix of people.”

Representatives from Park Leisure showed people how to use the trim-trail equipment, while a new children’s book – Arty Visits Amble The Friendliest Port – which tells the story of a knitted puffin’s adventures in the town, was also on sale during the day.

Author Coun Helen Lewis was on hand to sign copies and a portion of the proceeds from the book, which is helping promote this year’s puffin festival, are going towards supporting the birds on nearby Coquet Island.

A memory box will be buried at Paddlers Park at a later date.