Members of the local community attended the opening of a new play area at Crathes Primary School in June.

The local community pulled together to create the Trim Trail including support from the Leys Estate, Mr & Mrs Bert McIntosh, Aberdeenshire Council and Mid Hill Wind Farm Community Fund.

The Trim Trail is a great way to encourage children to enjoy the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage physical development in a fun and exciting environment. The Crathes trail consists of a number of wooden and rope obstacles which are suitable for all ages and abilities.

Mrs Maureen Fraser from Crathes Primary School, said: “We are delighted that the Trim Trail is now complete and ready for the children to enjoy for years to come. The trail is suitable for all school ages and abilities, encouraging the children to enjoy the countryside we have on our doorstep and learn new skills. We cannot thank the local community and businesses enough for supporting the project.”

Alexander Burnett, who attended the event on behalf of the Leys Estate and is a past pupil of the school, was proud to have played a part in the project.

He said: “Both my sister, brother and I, all loved our time at Crathes Primary as did my three children and building this Trim Trail seemed a small way to give something back to the school and make playtime even more enjoyable for the children.

“Small rural primary schools are such an important asset in our community and I cannot thank Mrs Fraser and her team enough for the great start they give to so many children.”