PEOPLE in Stretford are becoming increasingly concerned with the flagging facilities at their local park.

The users of Longford Park say that the facilities at the site have fallen into disrepair, with the mini-golf course the latest to be highlighted.

And they want the council to spruce up the historic land before it is left to rot completely.

Campaigners set up their own action group to press for a face-lift.

Now the 'Friends of Longford Park' organisation say that council chiefs need to look at ways in which to improve the park for the benefit of all the local community.

Chair of the group, Margaret Westbrook told SUM: "It is something that we as local park users feel very strongly about and that is why our group was set up.

"We want to discuss the various ideas that we have about refurbishing the park with the council and are hoping that representatives will attend our next meeting for an open forum."

Ideas suggested for improvements include better sports facilities and possibly a bandstand with a new building on the site of the old Longford Hall.

There is also hopes that the 'pitch 'n' putt' golf course will be tidied up in the wake of recent complaints from youngsters, who say that the course has badly kept greens and uncut fairways.

Margaret went on: "The golf course is just one example of why people are so upset that the park has fallen into disrepair, but we have had some positive comeback from the council who have resurfaced the tennis courts.

"We are hosting a 'Picnic in the Park' Millennium event on July 30 and hope to get as many local people involved as possible to help secure the long term future of the park."

The next meeting for the 'Friends of Longford Park' takes place at Firswood community centre, behind the library, at The Quadrant on Monday, June 12 starting at 7.30pm. All are welcome to attend and anyone who wants to get involved with the Millennium event can call Margaret Westbrook on 865-6064 or secretary Sally on 865-2022.

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