Greatfields Park - a poem by resident, Philip Spike

Greatfields Park in Barking

a charming "piece of green",

Set in a position next to

the busy A 13.

As you enter from the left or the right,

or from the gate near the traffic lights,

All the noise of the traffic ringing in your ears

as if carried on the breeze suddenly dissapears.

It's not imagination no

this is something real,

It's the peace of the surroundings

that you instantly feel.

All around the perimeter

planted with bushes and trees,

Either studying, or just looking

your mind becomes at ease.

Each season brings new colours

from light greens through to dark,

No two weeks are the same

as you walk round the park.

The blossom of spring, their pinks and their whites,

varying leaves, yellow, reds and greens... a magnificent sight,

The massive horse chestnuts preparing their gifts,

of October conkers, a joy not to be missed.

Bushes and shurbs in the edges abound,

all being well maintained

to keep their condition sound.

Apart from the joys nature brings each day

the park brings great pleasure in so many ways.

Children in the play area on the swings slides and rides,

While parents and carers sit and chat round the sides.

Tennis court and plenty of space for ball games,

The joggers getting fit and the new exercise frames.

Couples young and old out strolling in the sun,

And family's and friends having picnics, what fun.

All this and more can be enjoyed done and seen,

In Greatfields Park next to the busy A 13.