PARKS in the borough have been given new game and gym equipment after a cash boost.

Lilford Park in Leigh and Leyland Park in Hindley will be improved after receiving extra funding to install multi-use game areas and gym equipment.

The funding has come from Wigan Council and housing developers in the borough after they worked with three community groups to identify which parks are currently most in need of play improvements.

Lilford Park’s public toilets have recently been refurbished with funds raised by the friends group and the park will also see a community designed art installation erected later this year.

The Friends of Leyland Park group also raised a further £6,000 to install a multi-use games area which was raised through fundraising activities.

Cllr Paul Kenny, cabinet member for leisure and resources at Wigan Council said: “The park groups have done a fantastic job in pushing forward with the improvements to the borough’s local parks, which will bring a lot more joy to residents who regularly spend time there.

“Seventy per cent of our borough is green space and it’s down to our communities to maintain and enhance it where possible.”

Alexandra Park in Wigan has also received funding.