Many residents will be familiar with Cally Park, but might not know that the Friends of Caledonian Park are the main driving force behind the park putting on many free events for the community and generating over 1,000 hours of volunteering each year.

Volunteering provides a positive activity in parks, reassuring users that others care.

Miriam Ashwell, Chair of the Friends of Caledonian Park, said: “Our volunteers are ordinary people who do amazing things – whether it be creating new spaces for nature or tending to the existing ones, keeping them tidy and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

“And it’s not just gardening – we have runners and sports-people holding activities, dog-walkers who keep an eye on things, artists and photographers – everyone can contribute something.”

In 2020, Cally Park was one of six parks in Islington to be awarded Green Flag status, which recognises well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard across the nation. The Green Flag Award is a testament to the efforts of all the volunteers, community groups and council staff who care for Cally Park.

Islington in Bloom is well underway for 2021 and the popular category Best Community Garden is back this year after taking a break in 2020. If you fancy getting involved with a spot of gardening and meeting some new people, why not enter? More details about the competition and how you can enter can be found at Islington in Bloom.

Find out how to get involved with the Friends of Caledonian Park.