AN eagerly awaited children’s water park is set to open in Exeter on Friday afternoon.

The Splash Pad at St Thomas Pleasure Ground will open for the first time at 2pm on Friday  (May 23).

The facility replaces the old paddling pool, which despite being popular and much-loved was showing signs of age.

The City Council hopes the Splash Pad will become a hit with youngsters not only from St Thomas but from all over the city.

The City Council has replaced the paddling pool with a brand new water splash play area that is unique to the city.

A series of water fountains, cannons and a tipping bucket now entertain children on top of a brightly coloured rubber surface. There has also been a series of general improvements in the park with an old tarmac area being replaced with freshly laid turf, ideal for picnicking families.

Keith Owen, Lead Councillor for Environment, Health and Wellbeing, said: “I am delighted with the Splash Pad and am confident that it will be just as much of a hit as the previous facility.

"The paddling pool at St Thomas was an important part of Exeter’s play and recreation facilities and we were very clear that we needed to retain water play at this site.”

The paddling pools at Heavitree Pleasure Ground are also due to open imminently for use throughout the summer.