VANDALS failed to spoil children’s excitement at the unveiling of a revamped play area in Wincham.

Ellie Nancarrow, 14, was invited to cut a ribbon to officially open the play area in Chapel Street, which has been transformed by the installation of a climbing frame and a basket swing.

The revamp was made possible thanks to a campaign led by residents Lillian Barton, Clara Dockney and Angela Chapman, supported by local residents, Wincham Parish Council and Cheshire West councillors.

Families attending the opening had to walk over broken glass from a phone box near the play area which had been vandalised by a brick thrown through one of the panels.

The damage left a large hole and glass over the pavement, and the vandals were condemned by Mrs Dockney.

“I am disgusted by the vandalism, especially as the phone box is outside a children’s play area,” said Mrs Dockney.

“I can’t understand why anyone would do something like this.”

Mrs Dockney’s comments were echoed by Cllr Annie Makepeace, chairman of Wincham Parish Council.

“A brick had been thrown through the glass, leaving a very large hole,” she said.

“I reported it to BT, who said they would get someone out there to make it safe as soon as possible.

“The residents and the parish council are sick of this mindless vandalism, and we are asking people to keep an eye out for things like this and to let the police know.”

Ellie Nancarrow’s mum Melissa said her daughter had been very proud to be asked to open the play area.

“My children are there all the time since the new equipment has gone in, and their favourite bit is the basket swing,” she said.

Mrs Dockney, Mrs Barton and Mrs Chapman were presented with bouquets at the opening by residents to thank them for their efforts in winning the improvements.

“The children thought it was smashing to have somewhere to go, and I’m sure it will be well used,” said Mrs Dockney.

“I never bothered to take my grandchildren there before, but I will now it has been improved.”

The improvements cost £6,100, and were funded by Cheshire West council’s member budget scheme, a New Homes Bonus grant and support from local firms and residents, with Wincham Parish Council making up the shortfall.

A sponsored walk at Neumann’s Flash and carol singing at Witton Albion Football Club boosted the funds.