A CASH-strapped children's club and playground has been saved from closure by an injection of £27,000.

Last summer plans were being considered to close Marble Hill Park's One O'Clock Club and adventure playground, but now the Twickenham based centre has been dramatically saved by money donated by Richmond CVS Grants Direct Programme However, this reprieve will only be effective in the long-term if staff and volunteers continue their ongoing fund-raising - a further £16,000 is needed for this year alone.

To save on costs, the One O'Clock Club was closed during the winter months, with year-long staff being made redundant. However, with a new manager in place they are looking forward to a successful season.

Claire Chapman, the new playcentre's manager, said: "This is a new era for the One O'Clock Club and adventure playgrounds and we are keen to let people know we are open for business as usual from April 5 in time for the Easter holidays. These playgrounds are a tremendous asset for families in our borough and we have lots of activities planned for this season on both sites, including art days and games."

The One O'Clock Club is open to children up to five-years-old and offers both indoor and outdoor play areas. It will open from Monday to Friday 1pm to 4pm, but will be closed over weekends and bank holidays. It costs £2.50 per family, with season tickets available for £40.

For older children the Adventure Playground offers loads of ropes swings, football and indoor games during the summer months.

It will open Monday to Friday 11am to 6pm during the school holidays, but will be closed for weekends and bank holidays. During term time it will be open Monday to Friday 3.30pm to 7.30pm and at weekends 11.00am to 6.00pm. It costs £2 at weekends, £1 after school and £30 for a season ticket.