Long awaited refurbishment of a town centre park is set to be finished this summer.

Radnor Park in the centre of Folkestone has been a popular place for picnics, dog walks and games for decades.

But the last few weeks have seen work start to create new play areas for youngsters of all ages and the historic fountain restored to its former glory.

Shepway District Council has given the contract to HAGS UK who are set to get the open space into shape in months.

It has taken £400,000 of funding to bring the project to fruition which will include a railway themed zone for toddlers with a climbing train and carriage, tunnels and tracks.

There will also be a roundabout and a station.

A raised hill will be installed and extra climbing equipment will be in place for eight to 12-year-olds including a six metre high pyramid net and a 20 metre long zip line.

Mark Grace, the managing director from HAGS UK said: “As a Shepway resident, I’ve found my involvement in this flagship project highly rewarding.

"I have personally enjoyed working with our creative team to develop a scheme that can evolve and develop, just as the park has over time."

The redevelopment will also see paths around the fountain repaired and new trees and plants.

The newly refurbished Radnor Lodge tea room will also have room for outdoor seating.

A total of £128,000 has been funded by Pentland Homes which is building 130 homes at Scholars Village, Park Farm Road.

Extra cash has been injected from fundraising from the Radnor Park Community Group who has raised £110,000 including £50,000 from the council's community chest grant and £55,000 from the Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.

Trevor Minter, speaking on behalf of The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust, said: “Trustees are pleased to be able to help improve amenities for children and families in this central location in Folkestone.

"Developing sport and recreation are key priorities for trustees, who have made significant donations towards building and equipping more than 20 play areas and recreation grounds in the area, as well as more substantial projects at Three Hills Sports Park and the Urban Sports Park, which will open next year.”