It is always a pleasure to visit Garston Adventure Playground. On Friday I popped along to Garston Venny to see the great stuff they have on offer this summer for families from right across the community, and to hear from families how important it remains for local children.

Carmel and the rest of the team deserve great credit for the work they put into maintaining an oasis of fun and play that now sees the grandkids of their original generation of children enjoy the brilliant facilities. I always enjoy seeing how the place has evolved and how, through donations and successful charity bids, they keep the place fresh for both kids and, as I saw on Friday, their grandparents, too.

They also make sure that no child is left behind or made to feel left out. It has been difficult for many people over the last year or so, but the Venny has made sure its doors have remained open. They have distributed food to families who have needed it and been there to help children and families when they have been struggling.

The Venny’s value was summed up by a grandparent, who had played there himself as a child, who said that the local community “wouldn’t know what to do without it”. He’s right. It offers far more than the brilliant slides, swings and activities. It bonds the community together, builds relationships that last lifetimes and gives children somewhere to feel proud about and a part of.

It’s great to see the joy on the faces of those who visit, and I know it will be a brilliant local resource for generations to come. It really is one of the best places in Garston.