Villagers have teamed up to raise funds for a new play area and outdoor gym.

Residents in Istead Rise, near Gravesend, have formed the Istead Park Project with the aim of replacing the play facilities at the community field which are old, dilapidated and "in serious need of updating".

"Add to that the skate ramp being removed due to degradation and the youth of the area have been left with very little to keep them entertained," said Dakota Dibben who is one of the organisers

He added: "The local community have responded so positively and put themselves forward to help achieve the ultimate goal, of creating a new, inclusive, creative and fun space for the whole community to enjoy."

The project, which is also being organised by Emma Hawkins, Stacey Westcott and Stewart Marks, has already welcomed nearly 200 members to its Facebook page in a short space of time, each one willing to help in whichever way they can.

The plan is to hold a series of events over the coming years to raise enough funds to not only replace the play equipment, but also provide an outdoor gym and art wall.

The group has already banked more than £200 from donations and also been presented with a cheque for £200 from the local Co-op.

Dakota added: "We are extremely proud of how much has been achieved in such a short amount of time."

The project will hold its first big fundraising event - a Teddy Bear's Picnic - on Sunday at the community field in Worcester Close from 12.30pm until 4pm.

There will be a raffle, music, stalls, animal experiences with National Centre for Reptile Awareness, beat the goalie game with Istead Rise Colts and storytime with My Happy Little Book Shelf

There will be a prize for the best dressed teddy bear on the day.

Buy tickets on the day, or in advance here.

If you cannot go along but would like to buy a raffle ticket, click here.

To follow updates about the project search Istead Park Project on Facebook.

Read more: All the latest from Gravesend