When the old Mill Street car park closed, people in Brookfield wondered what would happen to the empty space. The town council asked local families for ideas. Some wanted a garden, while others hoped for somewhere to play sport. The town finally built a small activity park with a basketball hoop, a table-tennis table and a flat path for walking or cycling.

The park opened last spring. Volunteers painted the lines and planted flowers around it. The council paid for the main equipment, and local shops gave money for benches and balls. On the first Saturday, many people came to try the activities. A box beside the entrance held spare equipment, so visitors could borrow what they needed.

Every Wednesday evening, a coach runs a free session for beginners. It is for anyone who wants to try a game, even if they have never played before. The coach teaches simple ways to pass, throw or balance. She says the most important thing is to enjoy moving and give other people a turn. If it rains, everyone goes to the school hall across the road.

The park has helped neighbours meet. Ben first visited because his little sister wanted to play table tennis. He stayed to help put the balls away and now volunteers at the sessions. He likes that people of different ages can do something together. The town is planning a short weekend walk with a nature quiz along the path.