EIGHT-year-old Stanley Spencer was chosen to open Cowling's new play area.

North Yorkshire councillor Andy Brown said a few words before picking Stanley's name out of a bag to officially open the newly-installed equipment at the recreation ground.

Laura Tallant, chair of the Cowling recreation ground management committee, said there was more to come as part of the scheme. “Phase one saw the recreation ground fitted with drainage and the new play equipment which the parish council graciously funded and we’re already working on the next phases," she said.

The committee is made up of 15 volunteers who formed a registered charity to carry out the much-needed redevelopment work. The next phases will rely on grants and funding. “We aim to have more to celebrate next year,” added Laura.

The recreation ground also played host to a two-day community festival with live music and entertainment.