A Sandbach family will be gathering around a park bench on Christmas Eve – as they fondly remember their dear mum whom the bench is dedicated to.

The family of the late Margaret Powney, who passed away in June, have paid for a bench in her memory in Sandbach Park overlooking the area she visited with her grandchildren.

Margaret loved taking her children to the Greenflag town centre park with its showcase children's play area and rolling green spaces.

And now Margaret's memory is living on – giving other park users the chance to enjoy the beautiful views and landscape which gave her so much joy.

Her three daughters regularly visit the park with their children and Louise Powney, mother of Franki (5) often picks her daughter up from school and takes her to the park.

Louise, who lives in Elworth said: "Mum was such a lovely woman, always there for us.

"She loved her grandchildren and would bring take them to the park whenever she could.

"She was always happy to chat. We wanted to remember her and the park is the perfect place."

Louise will be joined by sisters Lisa Powney and Lorraine Javie and their children on Christmas Eve.

"We always spent Christmas Eve with her so we are going to keep to this.

"We'll be making it a celebration with hot chocolate and hopefully mulled wine to keep us warm."

Louise's daughter Franki will be joined by the other grandchildren – Izzy, Harry, Margi and Freddie.

Councillor Mike Benson, chairman of the Friends of Sandbach Park said: "We were delighted to help this family with their wishes.

"It's nice for this family and other park users to have somewhere to sit and reflect.

"The bench is in the perfect position overlooking the park and we're delighted to be involved. "