The grand opening of the revamped splash park at Coate Water may not have been blessed with the scorching weather families in Swindon would have hoped for. 

But overcast conditions and constant drizzle didn't deter some from visiting the country park's latest £475,000 addition when it opened to the public for the first time on August 14.

Families had to wait a little bit longer than expected for the facility which was delayed due to the colourful soft-flooring needed for it being stuck in customs. 

But after councillor Marina Strinkovsky pushed the button to turn on the fountains and jets for the first time at 11am, the families who were among the first to try it out were unanimous in their praise with most saying it was worth the wait. 

Hannah Pajak went with her two children, George, 4, and Agnes, 2.

She said: "It was lovely, such an asset to have back in the community and you have to hand it to the council, it was open for the summer holidays.

"There are similar parks, I think, in Cirencester and Chippenham but that takes a bit of organisation to get there with young children, so to have this back on all our doorsteps is wonderful. 

"Combine that with the play park and little train and Coate Water becomes a full day out, definitely a step in the right direction for Swindon."

Sasha Foxworthy was there with her three-year-old Callie-Marie, she said: "Water play is definitely her thing and she had a great time, even with the rain."

China Hutchings and her daughter Inari, one, were also among the first to enjoy the splash park. 

She said: "It is a good addition. I went with a few friends and their one-year-olds and they loved the beach balls and fountain. The water wasn't too deep either so perfect for toddlers."

Jay Salter and Emma Jayne took their own children Lianah, 9, and Bailey,10, as well as their friend Gemma's children Kieran, 14, and Ethan, 11. 

 "It was fab," Jay said.

Kirsty Pragnell and Shane, 2, also had a great time: "The kids loved it! So pleased with something free for them to enjoy in the summer. Worth the wait."

Natalie Messenger who went with daughter Erin, 5, said: "I thought it was brilliant, really well done."

But she added: "Just needs shaded areas now, otherwise the kids are going to boil up."

The splash park is free to visit, does not require booking and will run from 11am to 6pm until the end of September.