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A new public playground has been unveiled in Sark, with fundraisers confident it will become a community hub where children can play, learn and laugh with their friends and families.
The playground opened over the bank holiday weekend after years of work behind the scenes designing, fundraising and turning an idea into reality.
The playground project has been entirely funded through community fundraisers and donations from other charities, businesses, and individuals.
The main sponsors were The Sarah Groves Foundation and Channel Distribution Services. Both have supported the initiative from the very beginning and donated generously to ensure that it could become a reality.
Pictured: A memorial plaque to Sarah Groves. The playground appeal was supported heavily by the charitable foundation that bears her name.
“This playground is not just about children having fun, although I do hope they have plenty of it here," said Playground Trustee, Rosalie La Trobe-Bateman.
"A playground also functions as a safe and welcoming community space. A place where children and their parents, grandparents, guardians or child minders can go to have social interaction. All too often childcare can be lonely, especially on Sark, and having somewhere to go can really help.”
In a message directed at the children of Sark, who cut the ribbon and officially opened the playground, Mrs La Trobe-Bateman said: “We have worked really hard to make this playground happen for you. And we have done that because we believe you deserve it.
"You deserve to have a space that is yours, where you are free to play and learn and have fun without being told to “be quiet” or “do not touch that”. We share this island together and we want you to know that you are appreciated, loved, and looked after. Please enjoy your playground and look after it too.”
Pictured: Important contributors to the playground appeal include The Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation, Island Electrics Limited, Noble Trust, Rock Trustees, Butterfield Bank and Zedra Trust.
The Playground Trustees are committed to ensuring that the Sark Playground remains well maintained, which will involve further fundraising.
The Sarah Groves Foundation has pledged further support as and when necessary.
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