RESIDENTS who are fundraising for a new £100,000 play park on a Kendal housing estate have been boosted by the news that the target has smashed through the half-way mark.

It is hoped the new park on Sandylands will accommodate the 500 extra new residents from the Mart housing estate and Crag Close developments but also existing children and young people from Sandylands.

Since the summer of 2014 local residents, with help from the Sandylands Residents Association, have organised bag packs and nearly new sales to bump up the funds to the increasing total.

"It will be a fantastic asset for Sandylands now and in the years to come," said Jonny Gios, community worker from Sandylands Methodist Church.

"We dream for a park that people are attracted too and makes Sandylands an even better place to live for all ages."

He added: "We have been able to gather together a pledged amount of £60,000 from various trust funds and are now only £40,000 away from work commencing.

"Just last week we received news that we had been given another £18,000. This is a fantastic achievement so far and the park project is bringing the community together.

"For me this is what community is all about people coming together with purpose and intent, changing the lives of those in our community for the better."

The present equipment is tired with parts that are damaged. Old equipment is planned to be removed and improved with safer equipment, fitted with better access onto the site for double buggies and wheelchairs.

The Residents Association also plan to include equipment that can be used for pupils at nearby Sandgate School which looks onto the play park.

A nearly new sale is to be held on Saturday February 28 at 10am.

"With all available tables now taken we are asking the public to come along and spend their cash and support us," added Jonny. "If you are a local business and would like to donate to a fantastic cause, please get in touch with us."