by Alan Quick

CREDITON Open Spaces committee has produced a free interesting and informative leaflet about areas within Crediton which the public is able to freely enjoy and explore.

The Crediton Open Spaces leaflet includes details about People’s Park, People’s Park Wildlife Area, Upper Deck, Newcombes Meadow, St Lawrence Green, the network of footpaths at Southfield and the fantastic community space, the Town Square.

Play areas listed include Fulda Crescent, Spinning Path Gardens, Greenway, Barnfield, Beacon Park, Beech Park, Cromwell’s Meadow, Kirton Drive, Lords Meadow, Monks Close, Newcombes Meadow, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Saxon Close, Tuckers Meadow and Walnut Drive.

Some of the public open space areas are maintained by Crediton Town Council while others are maintained by Mid Devon District Council.

A map detailing where all the open spaces are is included in the leaflet and there is also a write-up with interesting information about each area.

People’s Park for example is described as: "A large open area of grass perfect for picnics, sports, dog walks or just relaxing in the sunshine. It is also home to a magnificent Giant Redwood tree."

About Upper Deck the leaflet states: "In 1915, members of a local family placed seating on the Upper Deck reservoir to provide an area for returning World War One soldiers to visit and enjoy the countryside.

"The Upper Deck viewpoint continues to provide residents and visitors with the perfect spot to enjoy views to the west of the town as far as the distant hills of Dartmoor."

St Lawrence Green is described as: "A small, grassed area near the High Street with several places to sit, after visiting the variety of town centre shops and cafes."

The Fulda Crescent Play Area is described: "This play area provides a safe place to enjoy playing ball games, riding a bike and many other activities."

Crediton Open Space Committee was established to transform open spaces within the town for the use of the whole community.

The committee consists of four members of Crediton Town Council together with representation from the local community, including local groups, organisations and individuals.

Members of the public who would like to be involved are invited to contact Crediton Town Council on 01363 773717.

The leaflets are available from a number of shops and businesses in Crediton, including the offices of the "Crediton Courier" and also from Crediton Town Council, Council Offices, Market Street, Crediton.

The leaflet can also be downloaded from the website: www.crediton.gov.uk .