A dedicated group of volunteers that have transformed a public open space enjoyed the fruits of their labours this weekend as they look to wind down their activities.

The Friends of MacAndrews Field have worked hard to turn the area off Exeter Road into a popular green space, much used by residents. The group has been involved from the start of the project alongside Ivybridge Town Council, from initial consultation and planning to overseeing the installation of memorial benches, play equipment, goal posts and trees and plants of all kinds.

Now, though, the volunteers say their work is almost done. They will carry out no more fundraising to put anything else into the field, concentrating on maintaining what is already there before responsibility is handed over to the town council.

The friends held their annual fun day at the weekend, with plenty to see, do, eat and drink. Although many were put off by the weather, a good time was had by all who did come, according to Von Waterman, one of the group.

She said: "We had a nice time and the weather turned out well, although it had been absolutely horrendous in the morning. The children had a great time, which is what it’s all about.

"Ivybridge Environmental Action Group came along and supported us as they always do, Ian Smith and Tess Wilmot were doing drawings and things with the children.

"We want to say thanks to the local businesses who supported us: Coop, Newsome Opticians, Hettie’s Café, Day Lewis, Jaz Interiors, Nature’s Larder, Boots Chemists, The Gallery and South Brent Flowers."

Von continued: "We’re not putting anything else in, it’ll just be general maintenance now, especially around the two benches. We’re going to keep going as long as we can.

"We’ve completed our two sets of proposals, and things will be handed over to the town council after three years. We enjoy the field, and we just hope that other people enjoy it too. The goal posts have certainly proved extremely popular.

"There have been lots of people on the committee over the years, not just us that are here at the end. We’ve had so much help, from IEAG, PL:21 Transition Initiative, Orchard Link, who helped us with the community orchard project.

"We’re very grateful for all the help we got at the beginning, we couldn’t have done it on our own. We’re all gardeners, but it’s a bit different managing a whole field."