EFFORTS to save the beleaguered Droitwich Spa Adventure Playground have failed and the site will close in six weeks.

Despite its popularity with youngsters, cash cannot be found by committee members to secure its financial future and the King George Playing Fields site shuts on Saturday, May 24.

Vital funding was pulled by Children in Need in 2002 and talks with various grant-making bodies, local businesses, statutory agencies and local authorities have proved unsuccessful.

Wychavon District Council, has offered a glimmer of hope, revealing its expecting news on a funding application which could breathe new life into the playground.

However work has already begun to remove outside structures and alternative uses for the building, which includes a new £10,000 hard surface, are still being considered. Just two months ago, volunteers from the Princes Trust spent several weeks sprucing up the site following storm damage and vandalism.

Manager Dave Spicer, who is being made redundant, said furniture and equipment would be given to local charities. Mr Spicer has called an open meeting for children and their parents before he leaves. He will try to answer questions at the playground at 1pm, on Thursday, April 24.

The playground opened 11 years ago and was founded by Vax Appliances. It provided activities for young people after school and during holidays.

Dave thanked staff, volunteers, councils, businesses and other charities for their support and heaped praise on Alan Brazier of Vax. "Mr Brazier's vision and benevolence provided the resources to allow the original creation of what has proved to be an inspiring adventure for many hundreds of adults and children alike," he added.

Wychavon's head of community services, Brian Norfolk, said: "The future of the site is uncertain at this time as the council is waiting for news of a funding application which could see the playground reopen."