A COMMUNITY group bidding to raise funds to build a new playground has pleaded for support after being selected in a 'community matters' scheme.

Romsey Waitrose's 'community matters' sees three causes around the area selected, with customers voting for whichever one they think is deserving of a proportion of £1,000.

As reported, the Lockerley and East Dean Playground Committee are attempting to raise £60,000 for a new playground at Jubilee Field.

Anna Standen, from the committee, said: "We are so grateful to Waitrose for supporting us in this way – we still have a long way to go so this is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and a bit more money.

"Around a quarter of the residents of Lockerley and East Dean are children and teenagers so we are appealing to the local community to spread the world and vote for our much needed playground."

Around £16,000 has so far been raised.

Throughout August, shoppers will have the chance to vote for the play area scheme, or other worthwhile causes, such as for North Baddesley's library.

Di Metters, community matters champion at Waitrose, said: "We are really keen to ensure we continue to play our part in the community and support those causes that matter most to local people. We are very proud to be helping some incredible causes, including the Lockerley Playground Committee, NOMADS and the North Baddesley Community Library throughout August."