This winter and spring, Lichfield District Council’s Countryside and Parks Conservation Group has been hard at work in Beacon Park, reinstating paths and the outdoor classroom, as well as clearing up after storm Doris. 

The group has also been hedge laying near the tennis courts, with support from Burton Conservation Volunteers, as well as starting to develop a wildflower area around the willow dome.

Peter Freeman, Park Ranger Countryside, said: “We’re ever so grateful to the Countryside and Parks Conservation Group as they have, yet again, helped improve the appearance of the park for all and enhanced the areas for wildlife. The outdoor classroom in particular will be used by visiting schools, Cub and Brownie groups as well as children’s parties – helping to foster a love for the outdoors.”  

The Countryside and Parks Group meet on the first and third Wednesday of the month from 10.30am until 3pm and carry out tasks at various parks and open spaces across the district. The group is open to anyone 18 years of age and above and all tools are provided. 

Also this spring, the Friends of Lichfield Historic Parks along with other keen volunteers came along to help the parks team to re-sow the poppy seed on the poppy field in Beacon Park. 

The field, which is beyond the park’s golf course, was originally created in 2014 and will continue until the autumn of 2018, to mark the period of the First World War. 

Tim Lock, Community Gardener, said: “Thank you to everyone who helped us on the day and hopefully we will have a lovely display of poppies this summer.”

From joining the gardeners or conservation group to helping to develop new craft workshops at Beacon Park, there are a number of ways to volunteer to help conserve the parks and green spaces across Lichfield District. 

Councillor Andy Smith, Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, added: “Beacon Park is such a well presented park and we couldn’t achieve all we do without the commitment and hard work by our team of volunteers and we’re delighted with the level of support they give us, and I’d like to once again thank them for all they do.”

To find out more about volunteering please email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk or call 01543 308867. 

Beacon Park is also home to the award-winning Lakeside Bistro, which serves up a mouth-watering menu of food and drink for all to enjoy.

If you've not yet visited, why not pop in and see why it's so popular!