Work on Pershore's new water play area is underway, which will pay tribute to the town's heritage upon completion.

The design of the new splash pad in Abbey Park has drawn inspiration from the history of horse racing derby Land O’Plums Steeplechase.

It will feature a racecourse section for young visitors to compete with their friends.

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Additional features of the splash pad include a reed shower, raining daffodil and The Tree Tipper, which is inspired by the Pershore Plum Tree.

There will also be a water spraying Freddy Frog and a ponded zone featuring weir gate dams to create flooded areas for children to splash around in.

The play area will be slightly larger than its predecessor, with trees needing to be removed as part of the construction, which will be replaced with new trees nearby.

Railings are also set for removal as part of efforts to foster an open, natural feel.

Over £327,000 has been allocated by Wychavon District Council for the new splash pad.

This investment forms part of the district’s wider renovations of its water play areas, which have reached the end of their lifespan and are proving costly to maintain.

The construction is being conducted by The Splash, who were previously involved in the creation of the popular water play area in Evesham’s Abbey Park.

The splash pad is expected to welcome its first visitors by April, 2024.

Cllr Emma Stokes, executive board member for resident and customer service at the council, said: "This will be an amazing addition to Pershore’s Abbey Park and I can't wait to see it completed.

"It's just another example of how Wychavon continues to invest in our award-winning parks and open spaces."