13 July 2011 marked the 100th Anniversary of Pickering Park being officially opened to the public.

The park was gifted to the city by Christopher Pickering for the people of the city to enjoy for leisure.  A picture of Christopher Pickering hangs in the Banqueting Hall of the Guildhall and can also be viewed here as part of the Museums Collection online.

A weekend of celebration was organised for the 16 and 17 July this year by a volunteer community group, The Friends of Pickering Park.  The Friends have worked tirelessly for the Park over the past five years.  Their successes include developing a Sensory Garden, securing funding to refurbish the Rockery area and walking and running routes around the Park.

Claire and I turned up bright and early on Saturday morning to help set up for the big weekend.  The Chair of STAND, local historian Alex Gill and Hull FC legend Johnny Whitely were joined by decedents of Christopher Pickering to remember his gift to the city.

Local vicar, the Rev. Paul Copely of St Nicholas Church led the group in a blessing and prayers for Pickering Park and East Riding Town Cryer Michael Wood rallied the crowd.

One of the attendees, a descendant of a councillor who had served on the Parks Committee in 1911, had bought along a medallion presented to his grandfather to commemorate the original opening of Pickering Park.

Unfortunately, the weather commemorated the Centenary of Pickering Park in its own special way, and rain stopped play for the celebration on Saturday.

However, the celebrations continued on Sunday with better weather and over 1500 people visiting the Park.

The Centenary Celebrations, and many of the recent developments in Pickering Park, would never have happened without the Friends Group.  The dedication of the volunteers continues the spirit of Christopher Pickering 100 years on.  The Friends of Pickering Park are now working on a master plan, including working on a bid to refurbish and preserve the magnificent gates at the Hessle Road entrance for the next 100 years.

Abi

www.friendsofpickeringpark.org.uk

   Leave a comment