Never underestimate natural beauty, says volunteer

A volunteer determined to bring wildlife back to a park surrounded by busy roads has urged people not to "underestimate how important nature is".

Guy Taylor, a member of the Davyhulme Park Friends group for eight years, said he liked to spend time in it because "nature is a great healer".

"I love creating an area where people will appreciate the park and all that it brings," he explained.

The park in Urmston, Greater Manchester, features two large ponds, two bowling clubs, a story-telling corner, skate park, cycle path and children's play area.

Mr Taylor said he was proud of his volunteering group's achievements.

As well as creating a new park entrance, it has also turned an old rose garden, which used to house a bandstand, into a sensory garden with funding from Stagecoach and help from children at Davyhulme Primary School.

"We all have busy lives whether you're working, or retired like me, and just to be able to come in a peaceful area and get back to nature is fantastic," he said.

"People need a bit of quiet time away from the office, away from their home.

"Our aim is to bring back as much wildlife as we can to the park and just improve the nature generally."

Sculptures, created by chainsaw artist Mike Burgess, are also dotted throughout the park.

The skate park was transformed by Mancunian graffiti artist Kelzo as a tribute to the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack.

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