DISABLED children will be able to play on specially designed equipment at an Evesham playground if a local mum has her way.

Mother of three Lucy Bickerstaff has launched a campaign to raise enough money to buy some specialist disabled play equipment for the Crown Meadow play area in Evesham.

She needs to raise £10,000 to be able to buy a ability whirl, which is a wheel chair friendly roundabout, and a special swing.

So far Mrs Bickerstaff, of Maple Close in Evesham, has secured the support of Wychavon District Council, which said it was perfect timing as the play area next to the bridge will be re-done after being closed while the crossing was replaced. She also set up a Facebook group, Like this to help get a Wheel Chair swings for Abbey Park Evesham.

"Last year I set up the Facebook page after seeing a picture of a young girl in a wheel chair using a swing," said the 39-year-old. "I have three children, none of them are disabled, but when I saw the picture I thought Evesham needs this what with the Vale of Evesham School.

"I rang the school and they said they go to the park three to four times a week and it would be great to have the equipment.

" I believe no matter what a childs ability is they all deserve the right to play and enjoy the feeling of play. There is nothing like this and we need it."

At first Mrs Bickerstaff had hoped to get a wide range of equipment installed in the park but the cost of her wish list was £70,000.

She decided to just fundraise towards the two pieces of equipment and needs to raise £10,000.

"Hopefully we can get some fundraising and sponsorship from businesses," she added. "We are hoping to sell silver ribbons as well for 50p which children can tie all over the Crown Meadow and will be planning a children's got talent evening as well."

Lynn Stevens, parks officer at Wychavon, said: "We’re really pleased that Lucy has so much passion for play facilities for children with disabilities. We’ve met with her to discuss her ideas and offered her advice. We look forward to working with her and supporting her however we can."

Anyone that would like to support Mrs Bickerstaff can either contact her via http://on.fb.me/1rfXcPt or can offer support to Evesham Town Council clerk Stuart Carter by calling 01386 443322.