SUMMER HOLIDAYS IN YOUR LOCAL PARKS

Those lovely long summer holidays are almost upon us and there's loads to do. Here are a few ideas that involve exercise and being outside in the fresh air.

Right on your doorstep is Evington Park. Why not bring your friends along and enjoy free tennis, playing football on the large grassy areas, riding your bikes, getting fit using the free outdoor exercise equipment and playing on the climbing equipment.

On 26th June at 2.00pm you are invited to join a mini beast safari to celebrate National Insect Week.. Meet at Evington House (tel. 273 4022). A kite making session is on 21st July from 10am – 12noon in Evington Park House. Come and make your sled kite and then fly it in the park. Tel 273 9992. ‘Love Your Park' during Love Parks Week (26th – 30th July) has its theme of butterflies. There's a butterfly quiz trail, art competition, games and much more. Come along and find out more about these beautiful creatures. More details 2739992. Summer Fun Week is from 16th - 20th August. The Play Rangers on Monday 16th August will be making modroc animals, doing face painting and sports. On 17th there's Ecology from 10am-12noon. Booking essential, tel. 273 4022. On 18th August there's Kites and Crafts from 10am – 12noon and 1pm - 3pm. Tel 273 9992. Although these activities are geared for the 7-13 age group, parents with younger children may come along.

Why not explore Leicester's other parks? These wonderful green spaces with wildlife, trees, shrubs and flowers, sporting and play facilities are for everyone's enjoyment – young and old. There are two well equipped play areas and an adventure playground at Spinney Hill Park and on Tuesdays a ‘Walking for Health' group meet at the Park Lodge on St. Saviour's Road at 10.30am. Bushey Brook flows through Humberstone Park, with its skate park, tennis courts and bowling green. And when you get thirsty or hungry, refreshments are available at the Humberstone Park Café. Nearby is Monks Rest Gardens with play areas, tennis courts, a basketball court and two bowling greens.

Knighton Park has a 9-hole pitch-and-putt golf course and there are three orienteering courses and a tree trail, as well as an infant play area for children aged 2-6 years and a play area for children over 6 years. Victoria Park has two well-equipped play areas, a large pond and nature area, and Victoria Park Café for refreshments. For further information on Leicester's parks and green spaces contact 252 7003 or visit www.leicester.gov.uk/parks