The Friends of Meadow Park work tirelessly throughout the year to help maintain, improve and look after almost eighteen hectares of open countryside with the picturesque Kingston Brook flowing through Meadow Park’s heart.
In July more work was done on the two willow areas. A hedge in Play field was clipped, foliage overhanging pathways was cut back and the sculpture border was spruced up. The usual litter pick took place, with particular attention given to the Forest School area and the railway tunnel. The remains of a bonfire in the log circle of Forest School was cleared away. We do not allow fires in Meadow Park and want to reinforce the message that it is not alright to light them.
The very wet conditions earlier this year and the dryer than average July has affected what is happening in the park. Fewer butterflies and insects have been seen and the nesting birds have had a tough time feeding their young. However, the wild flower population in the park is increasing and the future looks good. In June orchid spikes were seen in Hall Field and the number and variety of wild flowers is increasing year on year. See if you can spot the greater burnet, ragged robin, meadow sweet and meadow cranesbill among others.
On 24th June, a very windy day, we manned a stall at the village carnival and signed up some new members, but more importantly were able to talk to many people about our organisation. We handed out a lot of leaflets and hope that we get some new members in the near future. The strong, gusting wind made our stall very low key as nothing would stay in place. Consequently Kev’s demonstration of butterflies (egg, chrysalis, adult) was not possible. However, there was a lovely atmosphere at the Carnival and we know how fortunate we are to live in East Leake.
The Thursday strollers are enjoying walking in the park followed by a cup of tea or coffee. They meet at 1.30pm by the Mill Stone sculpture. Everyone welcome, just come along.
If you want to find out more about the Friends of Meadow Park visit the village website or our Facebook page. You can pick up a membership form from the library, Parish Office or Mel’s greengrocery. Membership per year costs £3 for an individual or £5 for a household. Becoming a Friend of Meadow Park does not require you to take part in the work groups. The membership fees are used to purchase tools and equipment to enable the work groups to maintain the park.
