New wildlife trail to be part of Peel Park celebrations

One of the UK's first public parks is preparing to celebrate a remarkable milestone as Peel Park marks its 180th birthday with a day of entertainment and community celebrations this Saturday August 22.

 

To help mark the celebration wildlife students from Salford developed keys facts for eleven species, such as hedgehogs, red foxes, kestrels and pipistrelle bats, that can be seen on a regular basis in the park. And pupils from St Philips C of E Primary school worked with a local artist to create artworks of the animals.

It will form part of a physical trail through the park, complete with QR codes to a virtual version with info on how to spot each species as well as the facts and artwork.

 

Using the trail and information boards, visitors can walk around the park and find out more about the world around us.

 

Dr Simon M. Hutchinson, Associate Professor of Geography at the University of Salford led the project with Dr Helen Whitehead. He said: “This is something we have slowly developed over the last two years. It has been great to see the students really get involved in creating this special trail.

 

“People don’t always appreciate the nature that is on their doorstep but hopeful this virtual wildlife trail will allow everyone to get to know Peel Park and its wildlife a little better and enjoy this fantastic outdoor resource right next to the university.”

 

Queen Victoria officially opened Peel Park, which underwent a major refurbishment in 2017 and remains a popular green space close to Manchester city centre. 

 

To mark the anniversary, a special birthday celebration will take place from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, August 22. Visitors can enjoy a programme featuring live theatre performances by Barton Theatre Group, music from the Farnworth and Walkden Brass Band, the Wagon Train, guided walks, a children's book launch and trail, the wildlife trail and children’s quiz and a variety of other family-friendly activities.

 

The event has been organised jointly by the Salford Ranger Team and the Friends of Peel Park and is open to everyone free of charge, with no ticket required. Organisers are encouraging visitors to bring a picnic or enjoy refreshments from food vendors attending the event.