A NEW bench is in place at Stanford-le-Hope's Hardie Park thanks to support from the local Rotary Club.

The 'Friends of Hardie park' group recently approached Rotary East Thurrock following their community offer of local funding for small, sustainable projects with long term impact on the area or residents.

Hardie Park trustees had been looking at purchasing a number of new colourful, 100 per cent recycled plastic benches recently to allow visitors to spend more time in the park.

With this vision in mind, they applied for Rotary's support to help towards the cost of a wheelchair accessible bench, enhancing provision alongside other newly purchased seating.

Chris Meads, a trustee of Hardie Park said: "We are delighted to have been awarded the funds to deliver on our vision of 'benches for all'. The wheelchair accessible bench brings the colourful outdoor seating capacity to 48.

"Mindful of on-going Covid restrictions the importance of offering a safe, well-spaced seating area for visitors has been paramount.

"The benches are a huge asset to the park and we thank the Rotary Club for their kind contribution.

"The new seating allows everyone the opportunity to enjoy their time at Hardie Park. In July we are looking forward to a special presentation event hosted by Rotary East Thurrock alongside many other worthy causes in East Thurrock to receive the donation on behalf of Friends of Hardie Park."

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The Hardie Park takeout is open from noon to 3pm daily in the park. From Monday (17 May) arrangements will be in place to re-open the cafe building with indoor seating and toilets for customers.