PARENTS in Windermere are on the campaign trail to raise funds for new equipment in a dilapidated children's playground.

Shirley Crisp is chairman of the newly formed Queen's Park Children's Playground Committee that aims to raise £60,000 to make life more stimulating for the area's youngsters.

She is one of four mothers who, between them, have 11 children, determined to replace ageing equipment at the playground on Park Road.

The 32-year-old mum-of-three told the Gazette: "Last year there was quite a serious accident on the playground and a couple of pieces of equipment were taken away so its looking a bit sparse.

"We are appealing to all local businesses and people, to anybody who used the playground as a child."

She said some of the remaining wooden equipment is now so old that she remembered it being installed when she was a girl of 12.

As well as replacing the equipment with modern hard-wearing kit which will be more stimulating for toddlers and children, the committee also wants to replace the bark chipping floor surface with new mats which will be safer.

South Lakeland District Council, which maintains the Queens' Park playground, has pledged £15,000 towards the cost of replacing climbing frames, a seesaw, swings and the like, but Sheila said the total cost was likely to be around £75,000.

Windermere-based firm Lakeland Limited has weighed in with a £3,000 donation to the fund and the committee is appealing to other businesses and individuals for funds. On May 17 there will be a sponsored conga around Queens' Park. For information about the event and other fund-raising, or to donate money, call Shirley Crisp on 015394-47803.

April 17, 2003 10:31