The Friends of the Recreation Ground were looking forward to showing off the much-wanted climbing frame when it unveils the £100,000 facelift of the playground next Thursday.

But the celebrations have been marred after thieves stole £6,000 worth of the climbing frame's components from the manufacturer's factory on Saturday night.

Children in Stamford placed a climbing frame at the top of their wish list of equipment on the playground and will have to wait an estimated two weeks before they can finally play on it.

The climbing frame will need to be built from scratch again and while it is hoped insurance will cover the theft, the volunteer group may incur extra costs which would come out the Friends' funds.

These costs are down to sub-contractors having to spend an extra day on the site.

Over the last 18 months dedicated parents have been fundraising and planning to transform the playground.

Committee chairman Nancy Wibberley is disappointed at the setback but adamant it won't spoil the day itself, which she believes will represent a landmark for the town.

She said: "It's a major disappointment because the climbing frame is what all the children asked for when we carried out a survey. Now there will be an empty space for the time being.

"But we're really looking forward to the day.

"It's great for the volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make this happen.

"This project has demonstrated how a community group can work constructively with town and district councils to improve their local facilities."

The metal components were stolen from the premises of the manufacturer Lappset in Kettering. A police spokesman said: "We can't speculate on what why these particular items were stolen but different metals have different values and unfortunately thieves do sell them on."

The Rec's grand opening will run from 11am until 1pm, with Lady Miranda Rock, patron of the group, officially opening the play area.
Improvements unveiled will include new swings, springers, a balance beam, stepping posts and a roundabout.

Hot drinks, biscuits and cakes will be on sale at the Belton Gardens Bowls Club while entertainment includes a live jazz band playing in the Victorian band stand and coconut shy.

The action group is fundraising for planting and park railings along Recreation Ground Road for children's safety.