A vigorous campaign by Thurnham mums to keep their play area open has seen Maidstone council change its mind.

The council previously determined it would not be replacing old play equipment at Peverel Drive that had been removed for safety reasons, because the play area was not recognised as ‘strategic.’

A Facebook campaign was launched and an online petition organised by Abigail Lowther and Eleana Keefe, both from Peverel Drive and both with young children who use the playground.

And the council confirmed it will use £60,000 obtained from Section 106 payments from local developments to renew the play area, fencing and safety surfacing.

Mrs Lowther said: “We’re absolutely thrilled and delighted, This is a huge step forward.”

But before the mums celebrate they have been advised of a further council review of play areas due in the summer.