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The new facilities of Kneller Gardens, Meadway, Twickenham were officially opened today by the Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, Cllr David Marlow.

The new play area is part of the government-funded play builder project and promotes natural play with features such as grassy mounds and hills as well as a new climbing frame, swing and a new picnic area and is designed to complement the existing equipment.

Frances Bennett, Chairman of the Friends of Kneller Gardens, said: 'We are very pleased with the new play equipment which has quickly become very popular with local children and young people. We are also overjoyed the renovated pavilion is ready for use and has been tastefully renovated to such a high standard by the Council. In addition to providing much-needed facilities, we believe it will quickly become the focal point for local people visiting the park.'

'The Friends have worked in close collaboration with the Council and Richmond Youth Partnership on both projects and we are very excited that the Richmond Youth Partnership have agreed to take over the running of the kiosk. We feel it has much to offer young people using the park and look forward to their continued involvement.'

There was an emphasis that the park was a community effort and that it would need 'looking after'.

The fun kicked off at 4pm with the official opening by the Mayor of Richmond on Thames.