Gheluvelt Park, Worcester facts for kids
Gheluvelt Park is a special public park in Worcester, England. It opened on June 17, 1922. The park was created to remember the brave soldiers of the Worcestershire Regiment's 2nd Battalion. They fought heroically in the Battle of Gheluvelt during World War I. This important battle happened on October 31, 1914, in Gheluvelt, Belgium.
A famous military leader, Field Marshal John French, 1st Earl of Ypres, opened the park. He said that on that day, the 2nd Worcesters "saved the British Empire." Inside the park, a plaque honors Captain Gerald Ernest Lea. He was a commander who died on September 15, 1914.
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About Gheluvelt Park
Gheluvelt Park is located in Worcester. It is along the A449 (Barbourne Road). The park stretches all the way to the River Severn. A small stream called Barbourne Brook flows through the park. This brook feeds a lovely duck pond. There is also a bandstand on the pond.
Fun for Everyone
The park has many things for visitors to enjoy. There is a fun children's play area. There is also a supervised paddling pool for kids. It's a great place to cool off on a hot day.
Nature and Learning
A special part of the park is a conservation site. This area is looked after by the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust. The park also has an Environment Centre. This center was once an old Victorian Pump House. Now, it teaches people about important environmental issues. It also shares ideas on how to live in a way that helps the planet.
Community Involvement
The "Friends of Gheluvelt Park" is a group of people who help care for the park. They also organize fun events. These events include "Carols in the Park" during Christmas. They also host a celebration for St George's Day.
Flooding in the Park
In July 2007, a large part of the park was flooded. This happened during the 2007 United Kingdom floods. The water came from the River Severn and the Barbourne Brook. The children's play area was one of the places that got flooded.
Park Improvements
Gheluvelt Park has received money to make it even better. The Heritage Lottery Fund gave £850,000 for improvements. Many exciting changes have been made.
New Features
A brand new play area has been built for children. A "Splash Pad" was also added. This is a fun water play area for toddlers to early teens. The old railings along Barbourne Road have been put back. The beautiful bandstand has also been fixed up.
Remembering Soldiers
A special sculpture was put in the park. It cost £33,000. This sculpture helps people remember the soldiers who died. It is a symbol of their bravery and sacrifice.
Future Plans
The park is always looking for ways to improve. There are plans for outdoor fitness equipment for adults. This would include six exercise units. Two concrete table tennis tables are also planned. The park has also asked for money to hold a community "Fitness event."
