Summer is a great time to visit local parks and the countryside and there are some really enjoyable free events being planned for people to enjoy in June.



Volunteers can help the rangers tackle the problem with Himalayan Balsam, a plant that is choking out our native flora, at our Balsam Bashing Event on 4 June. People taking part should meet at the lay-by opposite Fairy Glen, one of our most picturesque and diverse countryside sites, on the A5209, Appley Bridge, at 10am.

All children under 16 require adult supervision throughout the duration of the Balsam Bashing event.

The extended health walk for this month is a four-six mile tour starting from the wonderful Ruff Woods on Monday 6 June. Meet at 9.50am to be ready for a 10am start. People taking part in the walk can search for hidden sculptures and discover the fabulous wildlife and rich countryside that links Ormskirk and Lathom.
Richmond Park in Burscough hosts a fun day on 12 June between 12 midday and 5pm. Supported by the Friends of Richmond Park, this promises to be a great day out with fun activities for all the family. There’s a fun fair, bouncy castle and fun dog show, as well as 'have a go' sessions at tennis and bowling and a five-a-side football competition. There are also refreshment stalls, singers, dancers and bands, all celebrating our community and its diversity.

The annual kite flying weekend at Beacon Country Park is always great fun and this year’s colourful displays by the Northern Kite Group take place on Sunday 19 June between 11am and 4pm.

Councillor Yvonne Gagen, portfolio holder for Leisure, said: “Don’t miss these fantastic events which will be great fun for all the family.”

Please wear suitable footwear and clothing for the weather, ground conditions and activity at all parks events.

For more information regarding any of our Parks and Countryside sites or any of the events organised by West Lancashire Borough Council Parks and Countryside Ranger Service please visit www.westlancs.gov.uk/countryside.

For more information about volunteering opportunities with the Ranger Service please contact 01695 622794. You can also find out more about parks and countryside events by following the Rangers on Twitter @WLBC_Rangers or on www.facebook.com/wlbc.rangers.