A primary school near Hitchin is celebrating the completion of a brand-new playground trim trail, following a year-long fundraising effort involving pupils, parents and the wider community.

Preston Primary School has officially opened its new outdoor equipment, replacing an old and worn-out structure with a modern wooden course designed to encourage active play and build children's confidence.

The project has raised an impressive £21,400 through a mix of fundraising events, grants and donations. Contributions came from the school's PSA, local authority funding — including a significant £5,000 grant from Luton Neighbouring Funding — as well as support from individuals and community-led initiatives. The school itself also committed £5,000 to help bring the project to life.

Work on the new trim trail began at the end of March, with the old equipment removed and replaced by a new course aimed at developing balance, coordination and physical confidence among pupils.

Families were invited to celebrate the achievement at an opening coffee morning on 13 April, where parents and carers were able to see the new facility first-hand and reflect on the collective effort behind it.

There was a strong sense of pride throughout the event, with the school community coming together to mark what organisers described as a "shared achievement".

But the biggest endorsement has come from the pupils themselves — who are already making the most of the new equipment.

A spokesperson for the school said the children's enthusiasm has made all the hard work worthwhile, adding thanks to everyone who supported the project through fundraising, donations or encouragement.

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The new trim trail is now set to play a key role in daily school life, offering pupils a fun and active space for years to come.