A POPULAR children’s play area has celebrated a landmark birthday.

Woodland Play Centre in Crowcombe has been entertaining youngsters for 15 years after being created by Louise Kennedy.

To celebrate it held a Gruffalo picnic day last weekend, which also marked 15 years since the publication of the popular children’s novel by Julia Donaldson.

Louise said: “I was delighted to be celebrating 15 years of the centre I’m so passionate about. “It was brilliant and emotional to have over 80 people come along to the Gruffalo picnic.

“We have a funpacked summer ahead when we will be welcoming big and old kids along to the magical woods.”

Cllr Justine Baker, LibDem parliamentary candidate for West Somerset, added: “I have been working with the Woodland Play Centre for many months now. This hidden gem in the Quantocks provides outdoor activities which benefit children of all ages.

“With childhood obesity on a massive increase, making kids active while having fun is not to be underestimated.

"I was delighted to be invited to this celebration.

"I’m sure the next 15 years will be just as successful."