all-weather surface
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A recurring problem with our on site facilities was the lack of an All-Weather play area for children with physical disabilities, particularly wheel chair users. The grass play surface is totally unsuitable even in dry conditions.
Work started in September 2009 but due to the weather conditions work had to stop over the winter, but started again in the spring.
On the 18th of September 2010 we had the official opening.
This we will enhance the opportunity for sports and team games for wheelchair users and give them an alternative to using the busy car park.
At the opening former Home Secretary David Blunkett, involved with the centre since moving to Derbyshire eight years ago, told of his delight in the work being done at the centre. "We certainly need an
all-weather pitch in this area."
After the official speeches daisy uk ran sessions on the new pitch including a demonstration in blind basketball and football, Mr. Blunkett joined in the games and had a successful go at scoring a penalty.
The cutting of the ribbon and plaque unveiling was carried out by Kathy Hancock and Anna Wall, regulars at the Barn for the last six years.
During the open day we took the opportunity to show our guests our next project a new climbing wall |climbing wall| 
Managing director of Stancliffe Stone, Mike Faughy, announced that his company would be donating all the stone need for the new building.
Mr. Faughy told dignitaries at the opening event, who included the Duke of Devonshire as well as David Blunkett MP, that the natural stone of the peaks was a legacy of which he and his staff were proud and donating the stone to Dukes Barn was a privilege.
A big thank you to all the funders that have made this possible:
BBC Children in Need 
Derbyshire Community Foundation Derbyshire Dales DC Community Fund The Hedley Foundation Hilton in the Community Foundation Kelloggs Kilworth Challenge Midlands Co-operative Society Ltd Open Gate Trust Pets at Home The Rank Foundation St James's Place Foundation Derbyshire Building Society
and the many smaller donations from individuals.
