Three Moray parents have reached their fundraising goal to bring a cherished play park in their community back to life.
The grassy patch on Well Road in Buckie was once a thriving spot for youngsters eager to enjoy the outdoors.
However, the park has lain dormant since the final piece of play equipment was removed by the council about a decade ago.
Now campaigners Rachel Cormack, Gail Imlach and Michelle Gauld have reached their £60,000 target to revitalise the area as a fishing and seaside-themed park.
The first pieces of equipment are expected to be installed at the park in the autumn.
Last night, Mrs Gauld explained the group was “tremendously proud” of their achievement while excited to invite locals to enjoy the new facilities.
She said: “It’s quite a surreal sensation, to be honest. We only started the project at about this time last year. We didn’t think we would get all the money together so quickly.
“It’s something that everyone has bought into. It wouldn’t have been possible without the different funders who have supported us and everyone who has helped.”
Mrs Gauld added: “When we started out we had some discussions with people about what they wanted to see and the fishing or nautical-theme came out quite strong. The main thing was we wanted something different.”
The parents’ ambitions have been supported by a funding award from the Bucks For Buckie scheme as well as about £20,700 from cash paid to Moray Council by housing developers who have worked in the area.
Drawings of the new park design include a bobbing boat, a whirling swing with seats and a swinging bowl.
It is hoped the park will attract children from nearby houses as well as pupils making their way to and from Millbank Primary School.
Buckie councillor Sonya Warren said: “It’s wonderful because the whole community will benefit from something like this.
“It really was a well used park that everyone loved but over the years the equipment just wouldn’t get replaced as it broke.
“It’s a fantastic achievement for the group to get to their fundraising target.”
