Port Sunlight River Park has been named Health Site of the Year by The Land Trust at its annual awards.
Situated on the Wirral banks of the River Mersey, the popular and picturesque destination beat strong competition from a range of other landmarks and days out attractions to win the national prize.
The 70-acre site is managed by local charity Autism Together on behalf of The Land Trust, and was entered against over 40 of the organisation’s other attractions, in locations across the UK.
The judges were very impressed by the wide range of health and well-being activities that took place at the River Park.
The judging covered a 12 month-period up to March 2020, and in this time the River Park team, headed up by Park Ranger Andrew Jennings-Giles, has offered many different opportunities for the community to access the park for health and recreation.
Andrew said:
“We run healthy events and activities at the River Park to cater for a range of ages and abilities.
“In particular, the judges picked out our Heath Walks, run by dedicated volunteers, our Mindfulness in Nature courses, Community Walks as part of Wirral Walking Festival, Learn To Ride cycle sessions for local children delivered by Sustrans, and archaeology digs at the nearby Old Courthouse site led by Big Heritage.
“Also highlighted were the outdoor activities, work experience and craft activities for adults with autism we provide, led by Autism Together’s Social Enterprise Team.
“It’s also important to mention the thousands of hours of outdoor tasks done by our dedicated volunteers, and we thank all those visitors who enjoyed our River Park through walking, running, cycling and hiking up the hill for the fabulous views over the River Mersey and across to North Wales.”
In a great night for the River Park, the team also claimed 2nd place in the Community Space of The Year category.
A former landfill, Port Sunlight River Park has been transformed over the last six years, with plants and wildlife flourishing at the site making for a wonderful destination for the public to explore and enjoy.
Park Ranger Andrew continued:
“Although, due to the pandemic, many of the River Park’s social and community activities are paused for the moment, it’s very important for our health and wellbeing to get outdoors and keep fit.
“Our site remains open for everyone to enjoy exercise and experience nature this autumn, while of course paying attention to social distancing and following all current guidelines.
“Thank you to all our visitors for continuing to support the River Park this year.”
To find out more about Port Sunlight River Park, visit their Facebook page: facebook.com/psriverpark, the website: www.thelandtrust.org.uk/port-sunlight-river-park, or email: River.Park@autismtogether.co.uk.
