BERE Alston toddlers were jumping for joy this weekend as they celebrated the opening of their new soft play facility at Bere Alston Parish Hall.

After a considerable fundraising effort, Beregen, the charity that runs the hall, has secured the funds to purchase a huge 10m by 5m pack away soft play system specifically designed for children age 0-4.

Nearly £13,000 has been raised from various sources to provide the equipment.

The largest donation came from the local Belinda O'Flynn trust, but there were also donations from the Co-operative Community Trust, the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Norman Family Charitable Trust and the Viscount Amory's Trust.

The Bere Alston Parish Hall is one of the biggest in Devon so it can easily accommodate the system but the fundraising had to include money to adapt the under-stage area so that it could be stored away when not in use.

After a clever design by local carpenter Gus Pearce, the entire system rolls neatly away stacked on trolleys under the stage, leaving the hall free to its many other users.

The system is part of the trustees' strategy to develop sources of income other than grant funding.

Bere Alston Soft Play will be open to the public on Thursday mornings (9am until noon) from February 27 at a cost of £3 for the first child and £1 for any subsequent children.

There will be the opportunity to buy homemade, healthy snacks and tea/coffee, although free water is provided.

Once a month it will open for a 'Breakfast Bundle' – a Saturday session where parents/carers can bring their children and enjoy the equipment but also share breakfast together.

It is also available to hire for children's parties. Further details can be found on the Bere Alston Parish Hall Facebook page or the charity's website at http://www.beregen.org.uk">www.beregen.org.uk.