The Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground has been refurbished and will open on 4 April 2009 offering children a range of exciting new features and play equipment.

Additions, which have been funded by The Royal Parks Foundation, include a Play Tunnel, Timber Pergola, Wobble Bridge, and a Timber Fort. Improvements have also been made to the popular Pirate Ship, the Tee Pees, and the Mermaid's Rock.

Tom Jarvis, Park Manager of Kensington Gardens said: "The Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground has attracted almost seven million visitors since it opened in June 2000. We hope that this new play equipment will ensure that millions more children enjoy the playground for years to come."

Sara Lom, Chief Executive of The Royal Parks Foundation said: "Thank you so much to all of our generous supporters who have donated money to the restoration of this fantastic playground. It is an extraordinary space which fires the imagination of thousands of children across London and the UK."

Generous support was given by Mr Bruce and Mrs Shadi Ritchie, The Lancasters (Northacre PLC & Minerva PLC), The Elfin Oak Trust and Whole Foods Market � High Street Kensington.

Media enquiries:

For further information or images please contact: Katy Murray, The Royal Parks, on 020 7298 2128 or kmurray@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk or Eleanor Shakeshaft, The Royal Parks Foundation, on 020 7298 2130 or eshakeshaft@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk.

Notes to Editors

About The Royal Parks Foundation:

The Royal Parks Foundation is the charity for London's eight Royal Parks. Established in 2003, its aim is to help restore, conserve and enhance the 5,000 acres of the Royal Parks, as well as to support their wildlife and develop strong community partnerships. The Foundation wants visitors to experience the excitement of nature in the heart of London for generations to come. For further information please visit: www.royalparksfoundation.org

About The Royal Parks:

The Royal Parks is an executive agency of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The Royal Parks are: Bushy Park, The Green Park, Greenwich Park, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, The Regent's Park and Primrose Hill, Richmond Park, and St James's Park. For further information please visit: www.royalparks.org.uk