As the fierce grip of summer begins to loosen, it is a good opportunity to reflect on a busy and enjoyable summer, and look forward to the change of season and all that it brings to West Ham Park.
Like many green spaces across the capital, this has been one of the toughest summers on record; extreme and prolonged heat has left everything dry and strained.
I know many of you have joined me in worrying about our trees and most especially our staff over the past few months.
Alongside the weather, the increased visitor numbers and the unfortunate rise in antisocial behaviour have created extra demand on park staff.
I want to pay tribute to our dedicated team and perhaps you might join me in thanking them when you next see them, for all their tireless work which has kept West Ham Park clean, safe and welcoming to all over this very difficult period.
Whether responding to weather-related issues, caring for our award-winning gardens, maintaining sports facilities, tackling litter, or supporting visitors, our staff have shown the highest levels of professionalism and commitment throughout the summer.
Their hard work often takes place behind the scenes, but it makes an enormous difference to the thousands of people who enjoy this space each week.
I have been pleased to welcome both newly elected and long-standing local councillors to the park, where we’ve discussed the current pressing challenges, community feedback and our future ambitions which we can only achieve and deliver by working collectively.
Our Park continues to serve as a vibrant community hub, bringing people together through a range of successful summer events.
From family activities and sports programmes, to community gatherings and outdoor entertainment, it has been wonderful to see residents of all ages making the most of Newham's largest and, in my view, most-loved green space.
As we move into the cooler months, there is still plenty to look forward to.
Our popular Spooky Autumn Trail, organised by the Park’s Learning Team, returns on Friday, October 30, offering families a chance to explore the Ornamental Gardens and enjoy some seasonal fun.
On Sunday, November 15, the Friends of West Ham Park will once again organise the much-loved Leaf Pile event, giving visitors the opportunity to celebrate the glorious colours of autumn while learning more about the park's trees and wildlife.
Then, on Saturday, December 5, the Friends will host Park in the Dark, a unique community event that showcases the park in a completely different light.
I would like to thank everyone who has supported West Ham Park, and the charity that maintains it, this year – particularly our staff, volunteers and the Friends of West Ham Park.
Together, they help ensure the park remains a treasured green space at the heart of our community here in Newham.
- James St John Davis is chair of the City of London Corporation’s Natural Environment board and West Ham Park Committees.
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