Work has started on a £340,000 upgrade of a run-down play park which was damaged in Storm Eunice.

Contractors have fenced off Rylands Road Park in Kennington as part of Ashford Borough Council's £1.1m 'playground regeneration programme'.

The work, which is due to be completed in December, will include a multiplay unit for toddlers, two trampolines, play panels, a large junior multiplay unit with a slide and a large net climbing unit.

Council bosses say the project also features springers, a teacup, dipper and bouncing spinners, a disability friendly roundabout and a range of different swings for all age groups and abilities.

There will also be new benches and picnic tables included in the play zones as well as cycle racks.

For years, the Rylands Road Park Renovation Group has raised cash to help fund the works, which have already seen an outdoor gym installed at the site.

Bosses say the design of the park is the result of a public consultation held earlier this year with residents, ward members, the Renovation Group and Kennington Community Council.

Cllr Matthew Forest (Con), portfolio holder for environment, property and recreation at ABC, said: "Working with our communities and community groups is key to improving health and wellbeing across the borough, and it’s fantastic to see the design delivers equipment and activities suitable for all ages and abilities to explore and enjoy.

An official opening will take place once the works are completed and details of the opening will be announced in due course.

In February, part of the fence surrounding the site was flattened in high winds during Storm Eunice.

On the other side of Ashford, refurbishment works are also taking place at Central Park in Park Farm as part if the £1.1 million project and is set to be completed in November.

The final play area to be upgraded will be Spearpoint Recreation Ground in Kennington which is currently in the final stages of design.