WORK is nearing completion on the Bream play park site, and children around the village and surrounding area are looking forward to using the equipment that has already been installed.

Although no date has yet been given for when the park can be opened to the public, there will be an official launch event on Saturday April 28 at the West Dean Centre, with gates opening at 2pm.

Thanks to the hard work of Bream Early Learners playgroup in conjunction with the West Dean Parish Council, a £50,000 grant was obtained from the National Lottery Community Spaces Fund to make this happen.

"This is a wonderful asset for the children's groups that use the West Dean Centre and for all the young children who live nearby," said Ian Hendy, chairman of West Dean Parish Council.

"West Dean Parish Council are very grateful to the Bream Early Learners Playpark Committee for all their hard work in turning the vision that we shared just three years ago into such a wonderful reality.

"Sincere and grateful thanks from West Dean Parish Council and the whole community."

Entrance to the launch event is free as are all the attractions and refreshments, although there will be some opportunity to buy items from stalls run by community groups.

Attractions already confirmed include a rock climbing wall, bouncy castle, music played by Bream Band, craft area, childrens' show, book swap stall and refreshments run by Bream Library and a coconut shy, with more to follow.

"This is for the whole community so please come along and show your support," said Ian. Project lead on behalf of Bream Early Learners, Christine Wakerley, says: "The play park will be a fantastic asset for Bream. The Community Spaces Fund aims to encourage communities to support and work together, so we would be delighted to see as many people as possible from the village at the launch."

Children attending Bream Primary School have been involved in a fun competition over the Easter holidays, and the winner, who will be cutting the ribbon at the launch, will be announced shortly in school.

Volunteers to help set-up, clear up and run stalls on the day are also needed and if any community groups/clubs/organisations would like to have a stall there is still time to register by calling the parish office on 564484, or visit the Facebook page 'Bream play park' and send a message.