A MUCH anticipated addition to the play facilities at a Holsworthy park has been declared ‘officially open’ by the town’s mayor and local school children.

In a ceremony held on Thursday, April 24, the new galleon play ship, installed at Stanhope Park, was unveiled, officially opened and subject of a christening ceremony, in which a group of school children from Holsworthy Primary School joined in the festivities.

The new ship-themed amenity, which was installed by Academic Facilities Service was named by the school children who were present, having chose the name ‘HMS Gladiator’, a title which is borne in a plaque on the side of the ship.

After a brief speech in the ceremony, two of the children held the ribbon which was cut before the mayor, before he invited a third student to help him ‘christen’ the plaque bearing its name.

Cllr Nigel Kenneally, the mayor of Holsworthy said: “I was absolutely delighted to open the new pirate galleon in Stanhope Park. The local school children have chosen to name it 'Gladiator', and it was a privilege to have them help me open it.

“I'd like to thank my fellow councillors, the staff at Holsworthy Town council and Academic Facilities Services for helping bring this project to fruition. This is a great new community asset for the children of Holsworthy and i hope them and future generations get many years of enjoyment from it.

A spokesperson for Holsworthy Town Council added: “The mayor, councillor Nigel Kenneally, parks committee, Holsworthy Primary School’s student council and Academic Facilities Ltd officially opened the new play equipment at Stanhope Park.

“Holsworthy Primary School named the galleon ship ‘HMS Gladiator’ and participated in the ribbon cutting and christening ceremony at Stanhope Playpark.

“Holsworthy Town Council would like to thank all participants and wish the youth of Holsworthy many happy memories on HMS Gladiator!”