A BIG-HEARTED dad has transformed a children's play area at Hebden Green School, with help from a dedicated team of volunteers.

Dad-of-two Shaun Kirkpatrick, who inspired the community to raise almost £6,000 for local charities and organisations, offered to spruce up the playground when he visited the school to hand over the latest community funded donation.

"The garden was looking very dull and the worse for wear," said Shaun, 48, who has once again used social media platform Winsford Awareness Forum to rally help from local residents.

Shaun organises a collection every three months from the forum's 2,200 members, who can then nominate a worthy cause to receive the cash.

This time, he was inundated with people willing to give up their time and skills to work on the magical makeover.

Northwich Guardian:

Volunteers rallied round to help Shaun Kirkpatrick transform a children's play area at Hebden Green School

"With help from volunteers, we were able to bring this play area back to life," said Shaun, who works as a plant operative at British Salt in Middlewich. "With re-painting, re-felting the sheds, weeding and a general clean up, it looks hugely different.

"I scrounged the equipment we needed from generous local builders. After two days graft, it looks amazing so a big thank you to everyone who has made it all possible."

The play area has been turned into a colourful oasis where pupils can now play, relax and have fun.

Helen Ashley, deputy headteacher at Hebden Green School, said: "On behalf of the school and the children a huge huge thank you to everybody who took part in this project.

"Shaun has worked tirelessly over the past few months to bring this together with the support of forum members and extremely kind donations from the local community.

Northwich Guardian:

Big-hearted builders and suppliers donated materials for the magical makeover

"Hebden is truly grateful and we cannot tell you what a difference you have made. Hebden is so very lucky to be part of such an incredible town."

The makeover has attracted praise from the community.

Tracy Davison said: "It looks absolutely amazing! How wonderful for the children now. Well done Shaun and everyone who helped. Definitely a proud moment for you all."

Karen Baker added: "Brilliant work Shaun."

Gina Lewis said: "Lovely job Shaun."

Jessica Cole said: "It makes such a difference. Excellent job."

Caroline Morris added: "You have done an amazing job guys, the kids love it. I work there, you certainly grafted hard! Thank you."

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Shaun wishes to say a special thanks to Ruth hall,Chris Barlow,Kelly Barlow,Chris McDean, Mark Smith, Jade Smith,Wayne Pattern, Sadie Robinson, Sean McFeat and David Hough for all their hard work.

Also a big thank you to Pete & Craig at MKM Building Supplies, Rob Neild at Wicks, Ben Gabbot at LV Power Solutions and all the builders' yards for donating materials.

Shaun was honoured at the annual Oscar evening hosted by last year's town mayor when he won the Community Initiative of the Year award.

He was also named as the overall winner of the 2019 Walk of Contribution and has his named inscribed on a granite tablet outside Winsford Leisure Lifestyle Centre in a Hollywood style walk of fame ceremony.