PARK wardens have been brought in to look after Stratford’s Bancroft Gardens – but they do much more than merely tend the plants.
In addition to gardening and playground inspections, the wardens are on hand to offer help and advice to those visiting the popular park and the Recreation Ground on the other side of the Avon.
And they also fulfil a security role, acting as a patrolling presence to deter antisocial behaviour.
The service is being delivered by The Landscape Group on behalf of Stratford District Council and the company believes it will be a welcome addition to the town.
Adam Lewis, Contract Manager, said: “The primary purpose of the park wardens is to be a constant, friendly presence who can offer help and information to people.
“The Bancroft Gardens and Recreation Ground is an extremely busy area, particularly in the summer months, so this addition to the town’s infrastructure and ability to halt antisocial behaviour will hopefully ensure that people visiting feel safe and secure in the park.”
In order to carry out their additional roles, the wardens attended a ‘town ambassador course’ teaching them information about the town to pass on to curious visitors.
They also completed a four-day security guard course so they are alert for possible problems.
While on duty they are in contact with the CCTV monitoring office which is linked to Police Community Support Officers and traffic wardens, enabling a unified approach in the event of antisocial behaviour or criminal activity.
Wardens will be on site between 8am to 8pm from Sunday through to Thursday and between 8am to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
