Children will finally get to use a desperately needed new playground after it is unveiled today.

The Ashtead Recreation Campaign had called for better facilities for youngsters in the village and helped raise money towards the refurbishment project.

Children and their families helped Mole Valley District Council design the play area, which includes a zip wire, swings, a spiral slide and a sand pit.

Councillor John Northcott was due to open the playground today.

Mums formed the Ashtead Recreation Campaign in June 2009 and have raised more than £10,000 from events including a curry night, a party in the park and a fashion show.

They have been praised for their “huge desire” to improve the limited facilities for children and got formal charity status last year.

The council highlighted Ashtead as a priority for a new play area, as it only has one park serving its 13,500 population, which is “well below” the National Playing Field Association’s guidelines.