A new £40,000 hi-tech playground was opened at Lawson Street in Barrow in July 1989.

It was just one of four new playgrounds opening that month as part of a £115,000 two-year scheme announced in June to update Barrow playgrounds. The other sites were at Church Street, Fell Street and at Piggy Lane, Hindpool.

Opening the playground, Barrow Council leisure services chief Stephen Goodwin performed his last task, before becoming Lancaster City Council’s Senior Leisure Services Officer.

Chipman Play and Leisure built the playground.

The site received total support from 70 parents and children at the opening ceremony. Angela Williams, 26, of Clifford Street, treasurer of Lawson Street Playground Association and mother of two, said: “We hope to start all sorts of activities for the kids in this area and this is the first time they’ve had somewhere to play.”

Mother of three Maureen Doran, of Keith Street, called the playground “a good idea.”

Youngsters enjoyed trying out the new playground. Daniel Baker, five, of Parade Street said: “I’ve been on the climbing frame, the chairs and all sorts.”

Nicola Brook, seven of Keith Street, added: “It’s good, they’ve done a good job of it.”

Sisters Victoria and Siobhan Niven agreed they liked the playground and would use it regularly.

The opening ceremony included games, food and a large cake, plus music from Ulverston band Welfare State International.

The Fire Service let the youngsters dress up in their uniforms and use the hoses.

"Coffee and cake anyone?" This was the question being asked at the United Reformed Church at Dalton on Saturday, October 21, 1989.

That was the day of the ninth coffee morning to be held there in aid of the Pat Seed appeal fund, money for which went to the Christie Hospital at Manchester.

As a result of the coffee morning and one or two other events the sum of £740 was raised.