I HAVE just enjoyed a walk in Simmons Park, Okehampton, which I often do and I?m always impressed by the beauty of the place. At the moment the trees are looking wonderful, especially if the sun is on them. It?s lovely to see all sorts of people enjoying themselves ? little ones on the swings, bigger people using the new play equipment, dogs stretching their legs and older people taking the air. We owe the park keeper and his staff a huge thank you for looking after the place, for the imaginative planting schemes, the restoration of the fountains and the overall high quality of maintenance. But also we should thank those who keep an eye on the health of the river and its banks, the dog owners who pick up and the people who don?t leave litter. It?s a combined effort but so worthwhile. Anybody who thinks about it will feel gratitude to Mr Simmons for his generosity all those years ago, but to keep such an asset in a fit and beautiful state requires regular care and commitment. I think it?s an example of our council tax being well spent to the benefit of everybody. D Hartley-Russell Station Road Okehampton
