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Swanland Playing field is a community resource which is serviced by a dedicated band of enthusiasts. It gives people of all ages a place to participate in healthy outdoor activities at West Wold off West Leys Road to the west of Hull.

How Owen Ward became involved with the playing field goes back to the time he was knocked off his bicycle which had a dramatic impact on his life. He came to the area twenty years ago to work for a company called North British Credit as a Marketing and Sales Director. The company was originally based in the recently demolished building that stood at the front of Hull's Paragon Station, which underwent a major facelift during the recent development of the Transport Interchange in the heart of the city. His senior role within the companyΜύ however was dramatically affected after his accident.

It was through a friend of his wife that he became involved with the Swanland Playing Field Association. He attended some meetings and was drawn more and more into taking an active role. Having become treasurer he along with Harry Sidwell, who's been involved with the playing field since its inception around a quarter of a century ago,set about trying to improve and enhance some of the existing facilities.

From it's humble origins of being simply a playing space, there's been an ongoing programme of development. In addition to the playing pitches, the children's play area, the BMX park there's now a building with changing facilities, showers and even a 'tuck' shop. Recently Owen and Harry have been scouting for shelters for young people to gather to spend time with each other in an outdoor environment. This month work has begun on a MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) which will allow for more activities to take place and it's hoped this will be completed by the end of October.