A much-anticipated play area at popular nature reserve has finally been completed and families can't wait to have a go.
The new adventure playground is at Pennington Flash, in Leigh, Wigan and features a whole host of play equipment.
Sited next to the new Hide Coffee House, which opened there in March, it features swings, slides, climbing frames and a central 'toddler lake' blue area for younger children.
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The inclusive, nature-themed attraction was designed with the help of feedback from local families and will officially launch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at an event taking place this weekend.
The Flashes Festival of Nature takes place on Sunday, July 16 and will include fun family-friendly activities, from 11am to 3pm, including nature walks, foraging, photography, face painting, nature stalls, eco crafts and activities, accessible trails and wild art.
Sunday's celebration, with partners including Natural England, Lancashire Wildlife Trust and Leigh Ornithological Society, will also mark the official public launch of the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh National Nature Reserve.
Families have already given the play area the green light after seeing photos shared on social media and say they can't wait to take their children along to try it out - especially with the school holidays soon upon us.
"Looks awesome," said one. "Can’t wait to bring my little one! He’ll love the tunnel slide!," said another.
The play area, along with the cafe and visitors centre, are part of a £2.7m council makeover of facilities at the nature reserve, with new accessible toilets installed along with upgrades to parking - including electric vehicle charging points.
Wigan Mayor Councillor Kevin Anderson will officially open the play area at 10.30am on Sunday.
