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And in a way they are, as the £120,000 to transform a play area in Middleton Park has come from the Big Lottery.

Vandals destroyed the previous play area but thanks to the cash it will now be refurbished to feature new equipment such as climbing rocks, a basket swing, and a large slide, all integrated with the park to encourage running games.

A moat and ditch have also been planned, along with metal trip rails to allow free play while protecting the area from damage by joyriders.

The design was produced after a consultation with community groups such as the Happy Tuesdays and the Friends of Middleton Park and will complement existing amenities for families, including an 18-hole golf course, woodland, formal gardens and railway.

Councillors Judith Blake and Geoff Driver (both Labour, Middleton Park) are delighted with the funding.

Coun Blake said: "The new playground will make a big difference to families, who have been crying out for a new play area ever since vandals destroyed the last one."

The YEP launched its 'Let Us Play' campaign last year, aimed at improving play areas and creating more playgrounds for the city's children.

And at least 22 playgrounds across Leeds are expected to be revamped or created by March next year, funded by the Department for Children, School and Families' Playbuilder programme.