Parklife: Parkinson Park - a green oasis in West Yorkshire

"Park Life" is a new series presented by our weather forecaster Jon Mitchell, who loves getting out and about in the countryside.

Jon has been visiting some of the region's great outdoor spaces, from the "traditional" to the "linear", meeting the volunteers who maintain the parks for the enjoyment of all.


Jon's next stop on his tour is in a West Yorkshire town where wealthy factory owners made a green oasis where workers could relax.

Parkinson Park in Guiseley was created next to a major electric motor manufacturing plant by its philanthropic owners, the Parkinson Brothers.

Frank and Albert Parkinson bought the land as a green space for workers

Frank and Albert Parkinson formed the successful electric motor manufacturing company just before the First World War, and bought the land as a green space to be enjoyed by everyone.

But when the factory closed, the area deteriorated.

Around ten years ago locals decided to take matters into their own hands, and formed a group to bring the park back to its former glory.

It now provides a welcome space for locals to enjoy a relaxing walk and a breath of fresh air.