Unfair criticism of Peter Tyldesley
I WAS very sad to hear that Peter Tyldesley has left Bradgate Park, especially as he was, in my opinion, unfairly criticised in the Echo the other week.
In the seven years he was in charge, the park has changed in a multitude of positive ways, opening up huge possibilities for the local community to become much more involved in its conservation and heritage.
His legacy will be seen in many areas of the park’s work: developing access for local naturalists and archaeologists to survey wildlife and history; increasing and improving educational resources for schools; creating the new visitor centre; encouraging a huge number of volunteers to get involved with conservation work and interpretation; developing a variety of interesting and fun events for everyone and creating the Memorial Wood, to name just a few of his achievements.
He greatly increased revenue in the face of ever-decreasing funding from local councils, despite difficult financial times for everyone. Sales of charcoal and venison raised awareness of the value of local produce while making efficient use of the Park’s natural resources.
As far as parking is concerned, I have purchased an annual permit for the last few years. This is very good value for money and would allow any dog walker to visit the park as often as they wished, at very little cost daily.
There is no excuse for people parking in Newtown Linford village, as there is always plenty of space in the car parks, especially as there are overflow fields open on the busiest days.
Management of the park cannot be held responsible for the selfishness of those people who refuse to pay any amount wherever they visit, parking thoughtlessly with no concern for others.
The people of Leicester and Leicestershire owe Peter Tyldesley a great deal for the innovative and enthusiastic way he led the team during his years at Bradgate and I do hope that the incoming management will continue to be so far-sighted and inspirational in their plans for the Park in the future.
Maggie Morland