PARENTS, grandparents and carers in Stocksfield will be able to keep fit while their little ones have fun thanks to new equipment in the village’s park.

Four new items have been added to Branch End play area aimed at older children and adults.

The parish council decided to install the new pieces of equipment using money from the Housing Developer Fund operated by Northumberland County Council, which requires developers of new housing to contribute towards community benefits.

Councillors said they have had positive comments about the equipment from park users.

“The suggestion was to get some equipment for fitness that mums, dads or grandparents or whoever is bringing their toddlers would be able to use,” said Coun. Dennis Parke.

“Rather than them sitting on a bench, we thought it was a good idea.”

“People with children are going to get a bit bored and while the children are running around and exercising, it’s the best opportunity for the adults to do the same.”

The positioning of the fitness equipment, just outside the toddler area, provides a good viewpoint for adults to watch over their children while doing some exercise.

There is a walking frame, a piece of spinning equipment and some exercise bars. And for teenagers there is a giant frame with a swing and bars.

Coun. Chris Liddle said: “I’ve got a two-year-old and we come here quite a bit and people are always using the swing. It seems to be going down really well.”