Today (19 June) I am in Folkestone for the official opening of ‘The Danni and James Community Friendship Park’ also known as the DJ Park.
Councillors Alan North, Susan Carey and Sue Wallace at the DJ Park in Folkestone
Danni and James were pupils at St Mary’s Primary School when they came up wth the idea of transforming a patch of land near the school as a playground. St Mary’s headteacher, John Bird, helped get the project started with support from the local community including County Councillor, Roland Tolputt. Southern Water who own the land and Shepway District Council who created the park also played a big role. Alan North, Shepway Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Corporate Director, Keith Cane are present with some of the team that made the park a reality. Ward councillor, Sue Wallace is also here to see Danni and James’ idea become a reality.
‘This is a small project but a big concept’ said John Bird, and he described how the whole community had come togehter to raise funds for the playground.
Cllr Sue Wallace, James, Cllr Alan North & Danni
Danni and James have long since left primary school and are both now pupils at Pent Valley but they were thrilled to return to St Mary’s for the party to celebrate the opening.
The playground is made almost entirely from recycled materials by Monster Play System and their creation was a big hit with the children.