A FORMER parks superintendent is delighted that the people of Tyldesley are fighting to have their park restored to its former glory.

In the days when Mr Bob Russell was in charge at Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley, the Astley Street gardens were a blaze of glory.

Since he and his wife, a floral decorator, retired to Anglesey 15 years ago they have kept in touch with local news through the Journal.

And they have been saddened by the decline of the local parks.

In a bid to jog people's memories of what the old park was like they have sent these photographs as a reminder.

Mrs Russell said: "We were glad to read that the people of Tyldesley want their park back to like it wasa in its heydey.

"The men used to work very hard in the park under Bob's leadership.

"When we retired we came to Anglesey where Bob keeps a beautiful garden. It is admired by everyone who visits us.

"We wish all you Tyldesleyites every success in trying to transform the park."