AN ANONYMOUS gesture of kindness will mean that toddlers in Callington at last have somewhere safe to play.

Around 18 months ago, parents in Callington got together to begin an appeal for a playpark suitable for very young children.

Some parents had been concerned about the safety of pre-schoolers playing on equipment aimed at older children - and there was frustration that none of the town’s main parks contained a ’toddler area’.

The Town Council pledged to do their bit, acknowledging that the town’s open spaces lack equipment for the younger age group.

Now, an anonymous donation of £12,000 has come the Council’s way, with the instruction it be used towards a toddler play area.

It is hoped the new facility at the Saltash Road recreation field will open this summer, said Town Clerk Helen Dowdall.

A space known as the amphitheatre within the existing grounds will provide the ideal flat area, she added.

‘This donor is somebody community-driven, who feels that Callington needs this, and who has decided to put their money where their heart is,’ said Helen.

‘We’ve been aware that our play equipment does lack for younger children. This donation has given us the kick start we need to get this done.’

The Town Council is now in the process of applying for further grant funding of £10,000 towards the total cost of the project, which it has put at £32,000 - and says it will make up the balance from reserves earmarked for equipment.

Councillors will be talking to local parents to get their input into the specific items to be purchased.