A village pub is set to host a grand opening event this weekend to launch a new addition to its beer garden.

The Green Man pub, in Church Lane, Toppesfield, will unveil its new children’s play equipment on Sunday at 3pm.

As a community-owned pub, a group of parents based in the village and friends of the pub have fundraised for the new equipment over the last year.

It has been installed to offer a “safe and enjoyable play space” for the pub’s youngest patrons.

Halstead Gazette: New - The Green Man pub play equipmentNew - The Green Man pub play equipment (Image: The Green King)

A spokesman for the Green Man said: “The grand opening will include a professional face painter from 3pm to add a splash of colour and creativity to the celebration.

“This event promises to be a delightful day for the community, with the opportunity to explore the new play area and enjoy the welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere of the Green Man.”

The Green Man pub was purchased by the Toppesfield community in 2012 after residents raised more than £150,000 to help buy it.

The rest of the money for the ex-Admiral Taverns pub was raised by a mortgage and donation from a charity that has links to the village.

Today, the pub acts a social and communal hub for the villagers, and the pub’s mission is to create a welcoming space for all ages.