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The Friends of Herristone Park group was set up after the success of a similar venture to protect the interests of users of the nearby but much larger Crumpsall Park.

A handful of park users came together to campaign for improvements to encourage more people to use the amenity and discourage vandals and gangs causing a nuisance.

Residents first met last September to discuss problems in the park and the Friends was formed to progress some of the issues raised.

Since then pathways have been resurfaced, fencing has been repaired, new litter bins have been put in place, the park is now swept once a fortnight and inspections are carried out twice a week.

A security service has also been launched to provide better security which is available between 10am and 10pm every day of the week and will take reports of incidents on 795 0525.

The Friends will be holding their next meeting at Crumpsall Labour Club on Wilton Road at 7.15pm on Thursday, May 17 when everyone is welcome to attend and have their say.

Tom Lister, the Friends chairman, said: "Last September many residents came to a meeting to discuss the park. They said there were not enough facilities, fences were broken and that there was too much rubbish.

"Anyone with any comments on the work done, ideas or suggestions for the future, or who would like to be involved, should come to the meeting. Councillors and council officers will be at the meeting to hear your views."