MARK Smith's lone crusade to improve a playground in his local park has been a success. Mark contacted the BEN in February to say that Rishton Lane park had become an eyesore after years of neglect. He called on the council to replace swings and a roundabout, which he considered unsafe, clean up discarded needles and install a cushioned floor.

Mark, 33, of Parkfield Road, Great Lever, said children shunned the park in favour of Bradford Road park which had been revamped.

John Shepley, deputy director of leisure services, promised to look into Mark's complaints.

And now, council workers have moved in to start work.

"I am very happy with the council's response. When I complained about needles they came and picked them up, and when I pointed out that the swings and roundabout were unsafe, they were also removed," he said.

Mark lives opposite the park and vowed: "If I'm not satisfied I will keep plugging away at the council. It seems to have worked in the past and there seems no reason why it won't work in the future."

Mr Shepley confirmed that several thousand pounds was being spent on refurbishing the park, saying: "This is a priority area."

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