CHILDREN at a Cam playgroup were in for a big surprise when they returned after the summer break.

Because there, waiting for them, was a brand new play garden.

Staff at Hopton School House had kept plans to transform the outside area under wraps.

All the necessary works were carried out during the summer holidays, and were finished just in time to welcome the youngsters back, fresh for the new term.

The children now have a new tower slide, water play system, sandpit, wooden planters for growing vegetables, a stage area, and more.

Rebecca Sweet, playgroup secretary, said: “It was a really nice surprise for all the children and parents.

“The children were so thrilled with it.

“And now they’re really excited about coming in everyday and making the most of it.

“It’s got lots to interest them, and it’s so bright and cheerful.”

Although the children have enjoyed gardening before, the new planters will give them much more scope.

"The children have grown tomatoes before, but only in small planters and tyres," said Rebecca.

“The new planters are large enough for them to try lots of different vegetables and maintain them, water them, weed the areas and eat the fruits of their labour."

Playgroup manager Mona Aldridge says she has been bowled over by the amount of funds raised and donations of help received.

“The project received £10,000 from the Postcode Local Trust, a grant-giving charity funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery," she said.

“These funds, combined with grants received from Cam Parish Council, Magnox socio-economic scheme, Lions Club of Dursley, The Langtree Trust and other donations have enabled us to complete the garden in full.”

Students at Rednock School played their part in the project too, creating two mud kitchens for the garden in their woodwork classes.