The sun shone, the bands played and the crowds arrived in droves.
Thousands turned out on a hot, sunny April day for the grand re-opening of Alexandra Park, attended by gardeners’ favourite Charlie Dimmock.
After a brief ceremony Charlie stopped to sign hundreds of autographs before taking part in a spot of tree climbing.
While the Ground Force star strolled around the grounds taking part in various activities, visitors relaxed over picnics and enjoyed entertainment at the bandstand.
Around 15,000 people were thought to have come along to the event. Apart from the live entertainment there were also trade stands, giant chess, sports activities and refreshments at both the park café and various food vans.
The re-opening was the culmination of years of hard work and millions of pounds spent to restore the park to its former glory.
The Heritage Lottery Fund donated more than two and a half million pounds towards the regeneration of the park and the Council put forward another £800,000.
Alexandra Park was first opened by the Prince and Princess of Wales in 1882.
It was the brainchild of landscaper Robert Marnock and his last big commission.
Today, visitors can enjoy a boating lake, extensive grounds, tennis and basketball courts, a fishing site and woodland walks.
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This page last updated: 24/08/2004