YOUNGSTERS were thrilled as a £40,000 adventure playground featuring climbing walls, a trapeze and zip wires was opened.

The Holmes park playground, which is the first of its kind in the North and is expected to attract visitors to Thirsk from a wide area, was unveiled by Mayor of Thirsk Cynthia Hesmondhalgh before being tested by about 40 youngsters.

Councillor Hesmondhalgh said the playground, which was funded by developer Taylor Wimpey as part of its Millgate development, beside the Norby estate, had sparked excitement among youngsters in the area.

She said: “It will be a very well used facility, it is absolutely fantastic. I’ve seen children not knowing what section to play on next.”

After it was decided fencing to protect the equipment would spoil the park’s look, the firm building the playground said it would repair any vandalism to it for three years.

The wooden playground equipment has been removed from the flood-prone area and work to revamp some of the remaining equipment, including the swings, is due to start in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, a £20,000 pedestrian crossing opposite the playground, on Norby Front Street, is also due to be installed.