A POPULAR play area in Cockermouth has had to be closed for vital safety work to be carried out.

The site in Memorial Gardens was closed on Tuesday after it was discovered that the safety surface was curling up at the edges, causing a trip hazard.

It is hoped it will be reopened in a few weeks.

The gardens are owned by the town council. Clerk Sheila Brown said: "The safety surfaces only generally last eight to 10 years, it needs replaced.

"The job has gone out to tender. We're hoping it will only be closed for a few weeks."