A GROUP of residents have teamed up in a mission to transform a borough park to make it a better place for its visitors and wildlife.
The Friends of Royton Linear Park was set up by people living in the area who made the most of the beautiful green space during the coronavirus lockdowns, getting involved in activities such as exercise.
The group, set up last year, has since made a raft of plans to clean up the area and make it more visually appealing such as planting trees and creating sensory spaces.
It has plans for different sections of the park, including incorporating art, with tunnel and bridge areas set to be given a makeover too.
Members have also spoken to fishermen who set up at Salmon Fields to help them and want to make the park a popular place for foraging.
People of all ages, including children, have been involved in the work, which provides education for them at the same time.
Youngsters have also worked with members in litter-picking sessions, which are regularly organised to keep the park tidy.
The last major clear up saw 40 bags of rubbish collected, which were separated from recycled material.
People have been assigned as "tree guardians" too.
Members of the group and Rotary Club of Crompton & Royton during a litter-picking session
Children involved in group sessions
Rubbish collected during one of the litter picks
Chair Amanda Cawdron said the group want to improve the “green space for the benefit of nature and wildlife” as well as making it a great place for people to walk and enjoy.
She added: “It is about working together to develop the space.
“We have achieved a lot so far and there is so much more we can do.
"I have lived in the area for over 30 years, and so have other members, and we want to make a difference to where we live."
Chair of the group, Amanda Cawdron
An engagement event was held in the area in September with close to 400 people attending and a number of stores on display.
It gave the group the chance to share their vision of the park with residents and hear their thoughts.
The group is inviting businesses to support it with its work.
Borough organisation Action Together and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has backed their work so far.
Those who can help can contact the group on Facebook or call Amanda on 07745 747953.
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