A NEW play park has been opened in Usk after a community group raised £120,000 in a fundraising effort.

The play area near the Millennium Hall and Centenary Hall was officially opened by Kay Peacock as part of the town’s pageant on Sunday.

Usk Park Project secured funding after being set up by a group of parents three years ago with the aim of creating a new play park for children in Usk. The group secured £100,000 from the Big Lottery Fund, as well as raising cash through events and with the support of businesses, individuals and organisations.

Monmouthshire County Council is supporting the group by providing the land, installing the equipment, administering the funding and taking responsibility for maintenance.

Naomi Horsley, chairwoman of Usk Park Project, said it was a “massive achievement”.

She added: “It has been three years of hard work but to see their excited, smiling faces and the fun they are having has made it all so worthwhile.

“This generation and the next will enjoy this amazing, fun, inclusive place where children can enjoy a magical, fun day out with their families.”