Another cash boost for King George's Field project in Barford

The working group, formed to raise money for the project, has not rested on its laurels and managed to raise an additional £30,000 in grants in December on top of the £450,000 raised in 18 months.

Grants of £10,000 have been received from Garfield Weston Foundation and £20,000 from National Grid - an employer in Warwick.

These additional funds will be used to buy and install outdoor gym equipment on the playing field as part of the objective to promote healthy lifestyles with facilities in the community.

Mark Griffin, leader of the working group, said “We are enormously grateful to both Garfield Weston Foundation and National Grid for their significant contributions towards our project.

“Like many others, they believe in the community benefits that this project will bring and with their support we are on track to develop an outstanding asset for the local community.

“Despite the recent very wet weather, we are delighted with progress and, given this, we are already looking at forming a range of sports clubs which will benefit locals of all ages.

“There is a real buzz around the village now that the end is nearly in sight.”

The facilities are due to have been installed before Sunday May 1 when the working group is planning a celebration day.

There will be games, activities, food, refreshments and sporting and leisure demonstrations.

The community will be invited to bring picnics to share the success with neighbours and friends.

Mr Griffin said: “We hope that, as with our previous activities, many Barford, Sherbourne and Wasperton locals will come together to enjoy these facilities.

“It will be a fun day for the whole family to celebrate, and all who attend will be very welcome.”

Once the new facilities are nearing completion, benches, all of which have been sponsored by local people and community groups, will be installed.

A new store and toilet facilities are also in place, and, once complete, the benches and a picnic area will adorn the site.

The working group is also close to launching an online booking system, which will allow those who register to book these facilities from their laptops or smartphones.

The project is due to be completed over a year ahead of schedule and is the responsibility of Barford, Wasperton and Sherbourne Joint Parish Council.