For the local authority, which has earmarked new funds for playparks, is to introduce better play equipment to augment the current meagre selection in the village park.

The news has been welcomed by community activists who have been calling for improvements.

Their bid even went as far as being featured on television on the People's Millions lottery programme last year.

Sadly, although the will to help has been there, funds have been elusive – until now.

One of the key activists is Kim Kidd, of St Ninian's Way.

She said: "Everyone connected with the play equipment appeal is delighted at this news. It's what we have been waiting for and working towards for years."

She added: "We invested so much in the Peoples' Millions submission, everyone was so disappointed, not least all the children who appeared on the show, when it failed.

"Mind you, we should have expected it because we've written so many letters and had so many rejections that it shouldn't have hurt as badly as it did.

"However, the news that Falkirk Council has set aside money in its new budget for play areas is great.

"We'd like to thank everyone who has been supportive of our campaign over the years.

"There's a bit of money in our funds so I think we'll organise an open day to unveil the new play equipment when it's installed."

Councillor Harry Constable who has represented the village for most of his 41 years in local government, said: "I would like to pay tribute to Kim and the rest of the village residents who have pursued this issue in a vigorous and determined way.

"They certainly deserve the success their efforts have achieved."

Councillor Adrian Mahoney of the Labour-led admini-stration on Falkirk Council added: "I'm really pleased this work is to go ahead. I'm sure the new play equipment will be a hit with local children, as well as the scores of youngsters who visit Blackness each year."

It is hoped the new play equipment will be installed within a couple of months.


allan@journalandgazette.co.uk