DELIGHTED children shrieked with laughter as their new school playground was opened after a year of hard work and fundraising.

Staff and pupils at St Katherine's Primary School, in Hilton Road, Canvey, were thrilled when they received a £10,000 grant from the Big Lotto Fund to build their new playground.

The money was added into a pot of cash raised by the school's parents association, who held a series of events in order to raise enough money to build the play area, which includes a climbing frame, balance beams, and all weather flooring.

Headteacher Paula Keegan said: "The play area is fantastic, all of the children were so excited to use it.

"As well as being great fun it will help the children develop their balance, strength and help them become more confident and adventurous."

The play area was officially opened in a ceremony, during which Reverend Maria Walford, who is also head of the school's governors, blessed the equipment.

Mrs Keegan added: "They all loved it; it has been a really worthy campaign."