Andrew Mitchell MP has backed the Love Parks Week campaign during a visit to Sutton Park.

Love Parks Week took place between 23 July- 1st August. During the Covid 19 pandemic our parks and green spaces have been a vital lifeline to many, particularly during lockdowns when travel was limited.

Around 9 in 10 people surveyed by Natural England in May 2020 agreed that natural spaces are good for mental health and wellbeing. In May 2020, 36% of people responding to the survey said they were spending more time outside during the pandemic than before. This rose to 46% in July 2020.

Commenting, Mr Mitchell said

“We are incredibly lucky in the Royal Town to have Sutton Park on our doorstep. Over the past 18 months I have received dozens of emails and letters from constituents mentioning our park. It is a much-treasured green space and we all have a part of play in ensuring that it remains clean and tidy and a tranquil space.

“On a recent walk through the park, I was glad to see that the bins had been recently emptied and this summer we do not seem to be experiencing the same level of litter and anti-social behavior that was a problem last year. We have a range of local groups that spend hours voluntarily litter picking each week and I am glad that the vast majority of park users tidy up after themselves. We can all do our bit when visiting Sutton Park and I would encourage everyone to take their litter home with them or use one of the bins provided.”