Earl of Wessex opens play facilities

at Waterman’s Park in Christchurch

Hundreds of Christchurch school children greeted HRH the Earl of Wessex when he arrived to officially open new play facilities at Waterman’s Park, Somerford.  

Accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Valerie Lane-Fox Pitt-Rivers, the Earl was first presented to the Mayor and Mayoress of Christchurch, Cllr David Flagg and Denise Flagg, the Chief Executive of Christchurch Council, Michael Turvey, and the Chair of FROGS, Julie Petrie who accompanied him on his visit.

The Earl took time to talk to members of the community who had gathered to see him as well as to the many children playing in the parks. He unveiled a plaque to commemorate his visit.

Julie Petrie, Chair of FROGS, on behalf of The Christchurch Play Partnership, said it was an amazing day and added: “The atmosphere was electric with children waving flags that they had made and with children and young people playing on the equipment while HRH walked through the play areas and chatted to as many as he could in the time available.

“He met so many people from our community and everyone was so very proud of the children and young people from the local schools who sang songs and recited poetry to him.

“We would like to thank everyone who helped us make the day so special. It took a lot of time and effort to arrange everything needed for the visit by everyone involved, and despite HRH not being with us long, we feel it was well worth every minute.”

The new play facilities were funded from a £200,000 Big Lottery grant.