Cash for the work came from Erewash Borough Council's successful bid to the Big Lottery Fund, which gives cash to projects that improve health, education and the environment.

Pupils and parents from six schools were asked to help choose designs for new council play areas at Victoria Park, Ilkeston, and West Park, Long Eaton, which have now been installed as extensions to the current facilities.

New paths have been provided to link the new and existing play equipment and to improve access for disabled people, as well as new seating and litter bins.

Cllr Mike Wallis, the council's lead member for culture and leisure, said: "These new play areas are first class and an excellent boost to the facilities already available at both parks.

"I am delighted the work is now complete – perfect timing for the summer sunshine and the school holidays."

"Our thanks go to the children and parents from Long Eaton and Ilkeston who so enthusiastically helped choose the equipment.

"This is what children told us they would like to see, so we are confident that families will thoroughly enjoy the fun these new facilities offer. We hope everyone with young children will take ownership of these play areas, share our pride in them and ensure they remain a popular part of these two vibrant parks."

To celebrate the opening of West Park's new pitch and putt golf course and the new play area, West Perk café is offering a ten per cent discount voucher.

Schools that helped choose the designs include Ilkeston's St Thomas' Catholic Primary school, Cotmanhay's Bennerley Fields School, Stanton Vale Special School, Parklands Infant and Nursery and Harrington Junior schools in Long Eaton.