WORK has begun to build a new playground at Sandybrook Park in Cwmbran.

Play equipment including swings, see-saws, a roundabout and a zip wire will be installed in the park over the next six weeks.

The equipment was chosen by children from local schools who worked with volunteers from the Friends of Sandybrook Park and Torfaen council to design the park.

It was funded through Section 106 money from local housing developments.

Pupils from Nany Celyn Primary School, in Cwmbran, visited the park to cut the first sod ahead of the diggers moving onto the site.

Chloe Lewis, of Year 2, said: “I am really excited about the new park and can’t wait to try the zip wire.”

Grace Fotheringham, of Year 6, said her parents bring her on walks to the area and is "really excited to have somewhere to play.”

Chair of the Friends of Sandybrook Park, Rachel Williams, said: “It is fantastic to see work finally underway. The children in this area really deserve this park, it will be a safe environment for children of all ages to enjoy.

“The support we have had from Bron Afon and Torfaen council has been great and we hope to do a lot of work in the park, holding events and fetes, flower planting and other eco activities.

“We would love more families to be involved and support what’s going on in their area.”

Anyone interested in supporting the Friends of Sandybrook Park should contact Rachel Williams on 01633 668673.