New rocking donkey is the perfect addition to play area

The donkey-shaped piece of rocking play equipment was introduced after local residents requested something for smaller children to enjoy within the play area, situated between Saltaire Terrace and Hill View.

(L-R) Cllr Mike Young and Cllr Brenda Loynes with the newly-installed donkey play equipment

The new play equipment has been paid for by local Rural West Ward Councillors Brenda Loynes, Mike Young and George Morris. They jointly contributed £1,598 from their Ward Member Budgets, pots of money given to individual councillors by Hartlepool Council for grassroots projects.

Councillor Loynes said: “When we heard that local residents were keen to have something in the play area that suited younger children, we came up with the idea of this rocking donkey. It’s a lovely piece of equipment and we can tell it has already been well-used.

“Greatham once again won gold in this year’s Northumbria in Bloom competition, so we felt it was important that we freshen up the area and also offer something new for the families who enjoy playing and spending time here.”

At the request of the Ward Councillors, the council has also installed a new sign and bin in the play area, and freshened up the paintwork on the swings and climbing frame.