Friends of Haslam Park
The Friends of Haslam Park (FoHP) was set up in 2002 and is still very much active. Have a look at our Facebook page. We invite you to join us in park-related work days, these are typically:
The second Thursday of the month, 10-3, meet at the allotment cabin. Bring a packed lunch and suitable work-wear, like gardening gloves and stout shoes / wellys. Working typically on the nature reserve / woodland / orchard.
The last Saturday of the month, 9-12, meet at the allotment cabin. Working typically on the rose garden / sensory garden.
In 2002 and 2003 two dead trees were sculpted by Iain Cant with students from Tulketh High School and members of Intag. This work was commissioned by 'Art in the Park'.
In 2006 fields next to the Park - once part of Bostocks Farm and including the site of the farmhouse - and an area of overlap with the existing park, including the lake - were designated a Local Nature Reserve. The Reserve has been managed by FoHP, liaising with the Parks Department and with the Lancashire Wildlife Trust (LWT). The Friends and LWT volunteers planted a hedgerow across one of the fields, replacing a hedge that had been grubbed up some years before. The Friends and volunteers also planted the community orchard and arranged for 'scrapes' to be dug in the wetland area.
A 'Haslam Now & Then' project, involving Preston City Council, the FoHP, Prescap, the LWT and other partners, resulting in setting up of six lecterns around the park. Each lectern provides information and photographs and is embellished by children's art work, and the six lecterns comprise a 'Heritage Art Trail'.
FoHP designed and constructed the Sensory Garden, on a site that had been turfed over having previously been occupied by rose beds. The sensory garden was opened in 2008.
Haslam Park has been awarded a Green Flag every year since 2006-7.
Originally published by FoHP with PCC Parks Section. Researched and written by Philip Pacey. With thanks to Preston Museum & Art Gallery and Lancashire Records Office.