A large open field in Saddleworth is set for major improvement works this month, including access to free fitness equipment for residents.

Churchill Playing Fields, which sits between the villages of Greenfield and Uppermill, spans approximately 7.8 hectares of land, stretching from Wellington Road to Bridge Street.

The green space currently has a range of sporting activities, including a tennis court and a skate park.

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However, additional works are due to be carried out this month which will see the park equipped with a variety of new outdoor exercise and gym equipment.

The 'woodland workout walk' is set to be kitted out with an exercise bike, arm bike, parallel bars, assisted step, leg lift and pull up, a ladder walk/monkey bars, climbing pole and chin-up bars.

The equipment will be positioned around a woodland walking route, which will also be improved with more than 1,200 square metres of new permeable surfacing to repair the paths.

Sharing the news on social media, Councillor Max Woodvine said the new paths and drainage would improve the woodland access from Carr Lane up to the skatepark, as well as sections of the perimeter running and walking route.

Cllr Woodvine added: "The inclusion of fitness equipment and an improved path network will (hopefully) bring the woodland slope back into year-round use and will encourage increased activity levels from a range of visitors to the site."

Councillor Chris Goodwin, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods, also said: “We are continually looking to invest in our public spaces and parks to provide our residents with leisure and exercise opportunities to maintain their physical and mental health."

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