A Moray school’s new play area got off to a flying start when it was officially opened by RAF Lossiemouth’s group captain.
Paul Godfrey, who is station commander at the north-east airfield, visited St Gerardine Primary School to mark the launch of the £140,000 site.
The amenity’s multi-use games area received £70,000 towards construction costs from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund, due to the high proportion of forces children at the school.
The fenced and floodlit facility has markings for youngsters to take part in a range of sports, and also features a large sandpit with “rustic” play equipment.
Local residents have welcomed the opening of the new site, because it is located in an area with few outdoor play facilities suitable for three to 12-year-olds, and community groups will be able to use it outwith school hours.
RAF Lossiemouth’s community development officer, Sarah Riley-Evans, is confident the project will help youngsters attached to the RAF base to mingle with local children.
She said: “RAF Lossiemouth was delighted to support this local school in their application for funding.
“The play area will provide a hub within the town where service children and their families can meet with members of the local community.”
The games area also received funding from the Sportscotland Legacy 2014 Active Places Fund, and the school’s parent council collected donations to help cover costs.
