1998 June: Play parks at St Andrew's Ridge welcomed

The mayor of Swindon Brian Ford officially opened three play parks with some 40 children with parents attending a ribbon cutting ceremony before trying out the climbing frames, swings, slides and tunnels.

As well as two play areas for younger children, the mayor also launched a multi-use games area suitable for football and roller hockey.

Event coordinator, resident Paula Johnstone said: "I wanted to give people the chance to meet each other and be more aware that children have somewhere safe to play at last."

The event was sponsored by the Haydon Development Company which was responsible for the building of Abbey Meads and St Andrews Ridge.