A new climbing frame, parish councillor and a microgrant has been announced by North Weald Basset Parish Council this week.

A Cone Climber, a rotating rope roundabout, will be installed at both the Thornwood play area and Memorial Playing Field in Green Lane, North Weald.

Each piece of equipment costs £5,331 and will be funded by the parish council and a grant from Essex County Council's Community Initiatives Fund and Tesco.

The council also co-opted Andy Irvine as the new parish councillor for the Hastingwood ward preceding former Cllr Brian Bartram who passed away on May 20.

Mr Irvine, the managing director of his own business, has lived in the hamlet for 23 years.

Alongside the continuing good news the parish council has been awarded a £500 microgrant from Essex Association of Local Council and Essex County Council's Community Initiatives Fund.

The money has gone towards the 'Sunflower Project' the district council’s homeless accommodation at Norway House in North Weald.

A small garden within the grounds has been planned so that residents can enjoy inclusive gardening projects for adults and children.