WE are a Stourbridge family who, with three children of varying ages from one to ten, regularly use Mary Stevens Park.

I would like to commend the hard work of the Friends of Mary Stevens.

We are so pleased with the improvements and recent additions, especially the Hub with its free activities for all ages. My children thoroughly enjoyed the sports activities over the Easter break.

Wouldn't it be fantastic however, to further improve the park facilities. I would love to see segregated areas where small children could freely play on the grass without the concern of dogs and their muck.

I also think that dog owners would appreciate their own space where they can freely let their dogs off the lead without worrying about non dog owners and children.

It is great to see all ages enjoying the new smooth tarmac pathways on scooters, rollerblades and skateboards.

There are many parks in the local area which can be inspirational in further bettering the amenities for older age children.

Kinver has superb skate ramps, zip wire and BMX track. Stourport has a large trampoline aimed to be used by teenagers and Cookley is a delight with its interesting and imaginative design.

People sometimes give our local youth a bad press, but I feel our community could offer more for this age group.

Other suggestions, from my children are the hiring out of a range of sports equipment for a nominal fee from the Hub, for example tennis rackets and balls. What about a sandpit?

These ideas I hope will be seen as constructive, rather then critical, as all are viable at a relatively low cost.

The park is well knownand well used across a large conurbation, so we should be proud.

Jo Stevenson Norton