The children of Lindfield are invited to keep one swing swinging for six hours on Lindfield Common playground. A succession of airborne kids will swing for up to 20 minutes to help raise money for a new ‘mega swing’ for the village.

Adults not prone to dizziness are also welcome to take part at the ‘swingathon’, which will take place on Sunday 12th July from 10am until 4pm at Lindfield Common. The day will also feature face painting, toys and craft activities for families, so come along to cheer on the participants.

The event is being organised by Friends of Lindfield Playgrounds, a local charity that is trying to improve the play facilities. Six pieces of equipment have broken in the last two years at the playground.

“We’re keen to install a more exciting swing for older children, but also one that is a bit more accessible than what we have at the moment,” said William Kremer, Chair of Friends of Lindfield Playgrounds.

A mega swing travels in multiple directions and can carry several children together. The cost including delivery and installation is around £10,000.

Swingathon participants will receive support to raise sponsorship money for the playground, and there is an option to form teams to tackle up to a whole hour together.

“We’re also reaching out to local businesses who want to supplement the funds the community is raising,” Kremer said, adding that while the playground is the responsibility of Mid Sussex District Council, it is not a council priority for improvement.

So far, Friends of Lindfield Playgrounds has received a generous £2,000 donation from local business Adelphi Ltd, as well as £1,000 from the Lindfield Society and a significant contribution from the parish council. They now have enough for a new accessible roundabout, which they hope to install this summer.

To take part in the Swingathon, contact: friendsoflindfieldplaygrounds@gmail.com.