Zipwire damaged by vandal woodpecker replaced

A children's zipwire that was vandalised by a woodpecker has been replaced with a metal version, which should prove peck-proof.

The play equipment was removed last year after Derby City Council discovered a hole pecked in the centre strut that helped to support the cable.

The bird had made "a good meal" out of the wooden pillar at Sinfin Moor Park and Nature Reserve, volunteers said.

It has been replaced with a metal frame that suspends the zipwire.

Colin Attenborough, who chairs The Friends of Sinfin Moor Park, told BBC Radio Derby the old zipwire was lost last year because "Woody the Woodpecker" made an "a la carte" meal out of it.

"The zipwire was the main attraction down here," said Mr Attenborough, who was one of the first to ride the new zipwire while celebrating his birthday.

"This is a wonderful present for me, and of course everyone in Sinfin and the surrounding areas.

"The children are going to love it. It's great news, isn't it?"

The Friends of Sinfin Moor Park, National Lottery Community Fund, Derby Homes, Sinfin and Osmaston Neighbourhood Board and residents raised the money needed for the project.

A total of £24,484.16 covered installation of the zipwire, balance beam, groundworks, safety surfacing and a footpath extension.

A Derby City Council spokesperson said: "The Friends of Sinfin Moor Park, supported by the council's parks team, did a wonderful a job to secure the funding needed to make sure the zipline was replaced. The parks team then undertook the implementation of the project on the ground.

"We're delighted the project is now complete and the new zipline is in place for the community to enjoy."

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