YOUNGSTERS in Princetown will soon be able to enjoy a brand new outdoor play area in the village.

The new amenity, ready for action on Saturday, will incorporate lots of natural features and innovative play equipment. It is hoped it will offer children a sense of nature and excitement as well as give them a healthy, physical challenge.

The play space evolved from a government scheme called the 'Playbuilder' project which aims to provide facilities primarily but not exclusively for 8 to 13 year olds.

Seventeen play areas have already been opened in Devon with a further 12 due for completion over the next few weeks.

In total, £1.1-million was granted from the Department of Children, Schools and Families to Devon County Council's children and young peoples service for the project.

Phase one, which was completed in March 2010, committed £500,000 to 13 play areas in the county, supported by Play England, and designed to engage and develop children's skills and encourage natural play in a challenging environment.

Devon County Councillor Philip Sanders, member for Yelverton rural, said: 'I am delighted Devon County Council has been able to financially support the hard work by a group of local people which has led to this excellent project becoming a reality.

'It undoubtedly provides a much needed facility in an area which has very little in the way of activities for the younger members of the population. I congratulate all those who have worked so hard to ensure the project's success.'

Cllr Andrea Davis, portfolio holder for children's health and well being, said: 'I am really pleased to see another superb play area opening in Devon.

'It's so important that our children have well designed, safe and interesting play equipment to use in their local area.

'The playbuilder project is well underway now and has provided an excellent range of these types of amenities all over the county. I am sure this latest project in Princetown will give youngsters a lot of enjoyment as well as be physically challenging and offer a stimulating environment.'