WORK has started on an exciting new pirate ship play attraction in Stourport - which is set to open in time for the summer school holidays.

The play attraction is part of a series of ongoing improvements being made at the riverside as part of the Stourport Riverside Masterplan project.

Wyre Forest District Council has commissioned a specialist play company to install the new pirate ship to capture children's imaginations.

Deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for culture, leisure and community safety councillor Graham Ballinger said: “This new piece of play equipment will really engage with the children’s imagination. What could be better for imaginary play than a big fun boat by the river?

“With many families expected to holiday in the UK this summer I’m sure this striking new piece of play equipment will get plenty of use by budding pirates and help keep children entertained during the school holidays.

“Once again I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation for the masterplan and we will continue to develop the riverside area which is popular with residents and visitors alike.”

Over the winter rangers planted additional trees to give local wildlife a boost and improve the look of the meadow car park.

Future plans include improving footpaths to increase opportunities for outside exercise and further encourage wildlife.

Work to replace Moorhall Marsh Nature Reserve boardwalk, which was damaged in the winter, will also start once the ground has dried out enough for it to be carried out.