CHILDREN in Preston are enjoying a kick about following the opening of a new recreation zone providing sporting facilities for young people.

Ingol and Tanterton Action Group (INTAG) is responsible for the project, based at Poole House County Primary School, Kidsgrove, Ingol.

The community group received funding for the initiative from a variety of organisations including Preston Community Arts and North British Housing.

Despite the cold weather, children are already practising their ball skills on the zone, which is surrounded by a colourful mural created by the youngsters.

Allan Clinch, community development worker, has been with the Village Green Lane group for six months and is keen to get new projects off the ground.

Working with artist Caroline Coates, based at the University of Central Lancashire, he involved teenagers in painting the mural.

Mr Clinch said: "It has made such a difference, it looked a bit like a prison exercise yard before. They really enjoyed doing it and it has brightened the area up."

The project follows the go ahead for an extension at INTAG's second premises in Whitby Avenue.

Once the work is complete the group, now in its tenth year, will have a creche, new offices and a drop-in area.

Centre manager, Denise Hartley, said: "I am delighted, things are really coming together here.

"I live in Tanterton and I am passionate about the community. I'm lucky enough to be able to watch it grow and grow."

"We rely on funding and to have such a promising start in our tenth year is fantastic.

"The children in this area had nothing before, the project was set up to stop vandalism and crime and to offer local children facilities."

To find out more call 01772 701607.