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A Memorial To Local Hucknall Boy

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Date: 23rd August 2010

Hundreds gathered at the official launch of a memorial area for youth and a brand new playground on 19th August at Washdyke Lane Recreation Ground, Hucknall.

The idea for the youth area came from a group of young people who wanted to create a memorial to their friend Daniel Banks, who was killed on the road nearby several years ago.

Local residents had already suggested a space for young people to socialise on the recreation ground, and the two ideas were combined with the help of an artist, a landscape architect from Ashfield District Council and Hucknall Youth Service.

The group helped to design the shelter, as well as creating memorial plaques and painting the colourful figures that decorate the area.

Group of Daniel’s
            friends who helped design youth memorial area

The youth area has seating which is sheltered yet visible and also includes a kick-wall and basketball hoop as well as solar powered low-level lighting.

Daniel’s family and friends were overwhelmed by the number of visitors that came along to see the opening of the youth area, which coincided with the anniversary of Daniel’s birthday.

The event also marked the opening of a brand new children’s play area for Hucknall, which proved an instant hit with local families. The play area, designed by Ashfield District Council, combines traditional equipment with more challenging features and fun landscaping. Further work is scheduled for the recreation ground including wildflower sowing and entrance improvements.

The fun afternoon included a penalty shoot-out competition, with prizes donated from Nottingham Forest Football Club, storytelling, kite-making and a competition to design a sign for the playground. Children also helped to create a sensory garden in the toddler’s area, planting a range of aromatic and tactile plants.

Andy Hinchley, Landscape Architect at Ashfield District Council said: “"It's great to hear such positive feedback from local families about the new facilities and it's wonderful to see everyone out enjoying the space. The young people we worked with on the memorial should be really proud of what they have achieved".

Councillor Mick Parker, Chairman of Ashfield District Council commented: “It is marvellous to see so many families at the event dedicated to Daniel. There has been a great amount of effort put into the project from the group of young people, the Council and Hucknall Youth Service.”

Councillor John Wilmott, Deputy Leader of Ashfield District Council said: “It is hoped that the local people adopt the playground and youth area and help it stay free from vandalism and graffiti, giving young people in Hucknall, a safe and enjoyable place to socialise.”

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