FAMILIES at RAF Lyneham have unveiled a new children’s play area next to the station’s Hive.

The Hive is a hub for children and their families to meet, play games and socialise.

The play area was officially opened by the station commander, Group Captain Mike Neville, and eight-year-old Ryan Hargreaves, who won the competition to name the new play equipment with the name Hercules Challenge.

All station personnel and their families were invited to attend the opening party where children had the chance to be amongst the first to trial the new play equipment and celebrate by having their faces painted.

The new and improved play area was made possible as a result of hard word by the Officer Commanding Personnel Services Flight, Flight Lieutenant Claire Adamson.

After contacting play equipment companies, Claire decided upon the design that would be most suitable. She then made several bids to charitable organisations hoping they would assist with funding the project.

“It would not have been possible without the generous support from Annington trust, Sodexo, Salisbury Diocese and the Families Federation,” she said.

“RAF Lyneham has a very busy operational tempo, heightened by the task of managing the repatriation of fallen service personnel. Families are under a significant amount of pressure.

“The Hive offers a friendly place to socialise, receive support and allows the children to play in a safe environment.”

RAF Lyneham does not have a community centre; as a result, the Hive is heavily used as a focal point for parents and their young children.

“The play area will offer an update to the current facility, will encourage families to use the play area and provide an area for children’s parties.” Claire added.