CHILDREN at Orchard Infant School, Dibden Purlieu are very well balanced - thanks to the efforts of their school association, which has just raised £12,000 to provide them with a new play area.

The cash was raised by holding regular events such as fetes, raffles and cake stalls.

The new equipment comprises a walkway which is about 40 metres in length.

Association member and firefighter Andy Tait said: "Children can start at one end with a challenge of not touching the ground before they reach the other end.

"The new facility includes rope chains and balance beams - not only is it good fun for the children, but it will also contribute to their hand/eye co-ordination and all round confidence levels."