A NEW play park named in memory of a much loved member of the community has opened to the public in Workington.

Workington Town Council opened Springfield Park in Westfield last Wednesday, October 2 much to the delight of many in the community.

There was free ice-cream and many smiling faces as Workington mayor Neil Schofield cut the ribbon and let the first excited youngsters into their new park.

A spokesman for Workington Town Council said: "A big thank you to everyone who came to the official opening of our new Springfield Park Play area in Westfield yesterday.

"We are so pleased with how many of you turned up and we hope you enjoyed your free ice cream.

Workington Mayor Neil Schofield tests out the new slide.Workington Mayor Neil Schofield tests out the new slide. (Image: TOM KAY)

"The Mayor did a lovely speech mentioning Anita Milligan who was a very well known and loved member of the Westfield community who the park is named in honour of.

"Anita always loved the spring season as it represented new life and nature waking up from the darkness of winter. This love is represented in the name 'Springfield Park'."

Workington Town Council said that the new park 'wouldn't have been possible' without funding from Allerdale GDF Community Partnership, land from Cumberland Council and investment from themselves.

Youngsters loving their new park.Youngsters loving their new park. (Image: TOM KAY)

Anita lived in Westfield with husband Billy for 52 years prior to the Anita's death in February. Mrs Milligan was a 'very well known and loved' member of the community.

Following Anita's death, Workington Town councillor Sean Melton contacted the family asking if the park could be named in memory of the popular character.

Anita's daughter, Jaqueline Milligan said: "We were delighted it's named Springfield Park. Spring was mam's favourite time of the year... she would say everything is starting to wake up and coming to life - the birds singing, flowers blooming... she would say the days are getting lighter.

Children flock into the park following the ribbon cutting.Children flock into the park following the ribbon cutting. (Image: TOM KAY)

"Me, my brother David, my dad Billy and all my family are so proud of the park and mam would've loved it. She would've loved to have gone there with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. It would've brought so much happiness right on our doorstep in Westfield, a place we love."