A last-minute response to a recruitment drive for volunteers could breathe new life into proposals for a project to install new play equipment at Cowling Recreation Ground.

The parish council had considered dissolving an interim recreation ground management committee – which had only three members – when a request asking for more local volunteers appeared unlikely to succeed.

But prior to the council’s March meeting and at the meeting itself, three residents came forward to register their interest in getting involved.

With an eye on a project to modernise the recreation ground, village clerk Andrew Mallinson will now organise a meeting with the potential committee members.

He said: “Craven District Council had awarded us a £5,000 grant towards a refurbishment project if we could match fund it, but the offer lapsed as we hadn’t been able to do anything because there has to be a constituted group.

He added: “We’ve now asked for a six-month extension.”

A newly formed committee could also apply for Sport England or Big Lottery Fund grants.

“So far, the majority of people have been positive about the idea,” he said. “People want to see a more modern play facility in the village, so they don’t have to travel to parks in other villages like Sutton or Cononley.”