Families soak up the sun for Sheffield picnic events

Families gather for a picnic at Pitsmoor Adventure Playground.

Glorious sunshine shone down on a number of the city’s popular parks and playgrounds for picnic events to celebrate Love Parks Week July 15 to 24 - a year round celebration of open spaces with ten days dedicated to all things wonderful about parks.

Scores of youngsters, parents and grandparents gathered at places including Richmond Park, Pitsmoor Adventure Playground and Manor Fields to enjoy the open spaces, a picnic and a range of activities.

Fun mascot Fred the Ted met with children, who also enjoyed listening to music and readings of stories from Norton-based children’s author Diana Stimely.

Jon Morris, chairman of event co-organisers Friends of Richmond Park and a committee member of Sheffield Green Spaces Forum, said everyone who attended seemed to be having a great time.

He added: “Positive activities that brings people of all ages into our green spaces, such as the picnic in the parks, have got to be embraced.

“Working with others and Sheffield Green Spaces Forum have made hosting events like this easier.

“Sheffield Green Spaces Forum is determined to support Sheffield’s many green and open spaces groups by providing the opportunity to come together as equals where we can share ideas, knowledge, costs and have a powerful voice for the good of the communities we serve.”

A spokesman from Sheffield Green Spaces Forum said: “The trees are green, the bees are buzzing and the summer is officially here.

“What better way to enjoy this time of year than getting out into your local park and gardens with your friends and family.”

The national Love Parks Week is run by the Keep Britain Tidy initiative and saw thousands of people turn out for picnic events across the country.

TV presenter Julia Bradbury, who grew up in Sheffield, officially launched the scheme in London.

She urged Sheffield residents to take advantage of the city’s great green spaces and added: “The campaign aims to encourage ordinary people and particularly teenagers to get outdoors and stay fit, healthy and happy. “Recently, the Obesity Health Alliance warned that 40 million adults in the UK could be overweight or obese by 2035, with those in lowest income bracket particularly affected.

“That is why local parks are so important.

“You don’t need an expensive gym membership; parks are on your doorstep and there for everyone, regardless of age gender or ethnicity.”