Hexham Park improvements make it easier for all to enjoy Tyne Green Country Park in Hexham is now accessible in all weathers after new paths were created around the park.

This is the latest park to benefit from improvements commemorating the life of Queen Elizabeth II.

The park, complete with a children’s play area, is home to several sporting clubs and is a popular local attraction.

And for the first time a path has been made completely around the park, meaning dog walkers, those with mobility issues or prams. those watching sport or just enjoying a stroll can now access the entire area as well as providing new links from the riverside path to the children’s play area.

Tyne Green has prior royal history of its own, with the land originally presented as a park in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Jubilee by Lord Allendale for the leisure of the local people. It was set out with public walks between avenues of trees and became very popular with the people of Hexham.

The council chose to reflect the late Monarch's love of the outdoors and the countryside and set aside £370,000 for projects in towns up and down Northumberland.

Cabinet member for Improving Our Environment Councillor Colin Horncastle said: “Tyne Green has been a much-loved space for many years and with investments like this, will continue to be. “The positive impact upon the users of the park having increased the accessibility will see more people being able to enjoy the facilities year round.

“This is a fine example of future proofing our green spaces and working with the community to deliver improvements that are both welcomed and embraced.”

Hexham Central with Acomb County Councillor Trevor Cessford said “As someone who was born in Hexham I have visited Tyne Green all my life, whether it was to play football on the grass, row in the boats, have a picnic with the family - it’s always been a special place for me.

“I’m delighted that this tribute to our late Queen has been installed. It will enhance and improve the area for the pleasure of many people.”

“I’m also delighted that NCC took on board the suggestion I put forward for a link to be added to join the path down to the play park area.”

Hexham Mayor Derek Kennedy adds: "The new pathway looks great and contributes to the beautiful Tyne Green. This will help those in mobility scooters and those with prams. The area frequently gets muddy so this should help keep the area cleaner. "