Environment Day

Story: Fran Belbin

This year’s Environment Day took place on 23rd May and was possibly the most successful yet with residents once again treated to glorious weather and a brilliant atmosphere in Abbeyfield Park.

Many of the regular stalls and activities were here, promoting recycling, composting and environmental projects. Stalls selling plants and food and the bike doctor were doing a roaring trade and the kids had pony rides, football and a coconut shy to keep them entertained. A new feature this year was the “buskers’ corner” on the steps on Abbeyfield Park House, with sets from John and Dick on guitar and harmonica, Terry on ukulele and Julie on guitar. Recycled clothes were also selling so well that Transition Burngreave are now hoping to organise a clothes swap on 4th July (for more info contact Lynn 243 6398).

The only disappointment was that some things sold out so quickly – Arwa’s falafels were all gone by 2.15 and hanging baskets within an hour of opening! Fortunately extra supplies were brought in to keep everybody happy!

Another innovation this year were the Sustrans smoothies that were being blended by pedal power! Youngsters especially were enjoying using the bike with a blender attached to mix up smoothies made with locally produced soft fruits. Ruth from Sustrans was also promoting the Sheffield Bike Festival in June and the Bike It scheme which is now working with St Catherine’s School to get kids using their bikes more and cycling to school. For more information contact Ruth on 273 5828.

Friends of Abbeyfield Park were out and about collecting email addresses of residents who want to get involved with the group – email them at abbeyfieldpark@googlemail.com for information.

So all in all a fantastic day, made possible by “lots of different people putting in a huge effort and working together”.