FAMILES are urged to get out and about and enjoy the open spaces this week as part of the Love Your Parks week.

Rochford District Council is encouraging residents and visitors to make the most of their surroundings, by visiting one of the parks across the district.

Running until Sunday, August 3, the week aims to raise awareness of the importance of green spaces, showcasing the benefit they bring and the need for continual investment in their upkeep.

One of Rochford’s most spectacular open spaces is the 200-acre Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park, with woodland, a lake, open grassland and a network of connecting paths and bridleways.

More than 35 acres of new woodland, containing 32,000 trees, were planted in the winter of 2008/09 and more recently a play area and wild flower meadow have been added to the park.

Rochford District councillor responsible for environment, Keith Gordon, said: “We are extremely lucky in the Rochford, we have so many stunning parks and open spaces on our doorsteps.”