A VIP opened Egerton Primary School’s new playground extension on Monday.

In his first official visit to a Kent school, Jim Knight, Minister of State for Schools and Learning, opened the playground extension as teachers, children, parents, and members of Kent County Council looked on.

Head teacher Linda Oliver thanked the Friends of Egerton School for the £20,000 it had contributed towards the £68,000 cost of the playground.

As well as giving the children the freedom to run around and pursue their own games, the new area has three bright rubber-crumb surfaced trim trails for pupils to exercise on.

During his visit Mr Knight toured the playground extension and spent time talking to pupils before presenting certificates to pupils Rebecca Webb and Sebastian Huntley, whose winning designs are incorporated on the commemorative plaque.

By extending the playground to the side of the playing field, Egerton School has retained a sports area for football, athletics, and other grass sports.