2019 sees another successful week of Superhero Picnic in the Park events, following 2018’s award-winning events at Markeaton, Chaddesden and Darley Park.
Derby Parks welcomed over 2,500 people to the Superhero Picnic in the Park events over three days. The events that take place as part of Love Parks week celebrated Derby’s fantastic green spaces and the people that bring them to life. Spirits weren’t dampened at Chaddesden Park, despite the rainy weather, as families donned waterproofs in order to enjoy the huge range of free activities. With over 20 stallholders and activities at each event, there was no shortage of fun to be had for the whole family.
Kids and adults alike were able to learn valuable lessons from local emergency services with Derbyshire Fire Service bringing along their fire engines, and the Amber Valley First Responders demonstrating to over 300 people emergency first aid and CPR. A healthy lifestyle was promoted as members of the Derby Parks team worked tirelessly on the Livewell ‘smoothie bike’ to manually blend delicious healthy drinks for attendees.
The whole family had the chance to share, learn and engage with the history of making as the highly popular ‘The Makory’ Bus, provided by Derby Museums, engaged with over 100 children at Chaddesden Park. As the children celebrated the parks, they were celebrated in return as hundreds of mini superheroes were awarded certificates for their efforts.
As part of the celebrations three of Derby’s six Green Flags were raised, recognising that these spaces boast the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained and have excellent visitor facilities. Alongside Markeaton, Chaddesden and Darley Park, Sunnydale, Alvaston and Derby Arboretum have all been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as among the very best in the world.
Councillor Robin Wood, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism said of the events:
The Superhero Picnic in the Park events have become a staple part of Derby’s annual events calendar for families looking for a fun, cost effective day out with their children. The events are held in conjunction with the national ‘Love Parks’ initiative to promote the use of parks and green spaces which are so important for health, wellbeing and nature. We thank everyone who came and enjoyed our parks, and to all of the teams that do a fantastic job of maintaining our fantastic parks throughout the year.