Today, the Heritage Lottery Fund has published State of UK Public Parks 2016, its secondreport to comprehensively review the condition and management of the UK’s public parks. An investment of over £75m of National Lottery money has played a vital role in ensuring public parks across the West Midlands are in better condition, with improved facilities and renovated historic features. However, with park managers across the region reporting an expectation of further budget cuts, this investment could be lost as the risk of decline and potential facility closures continues to grow.  

Dads! You may be at fault if your children lack imagination and creativity and find it hard to express themselves at playtime. Only 10% of UK dads really get down with the kids it seems. A survey conducted by Novotel hotels makes it clear that Dads across the UK need to up the ante at playtime and overcome that famous British reserve. Just one in ten get involved in imaginative play. In contrast one in three mums claim to have super powers including eyes in the back of their heads and the ability to see through walls with their x ray vision.

Further to new research from Bristol University suggesting just under one-third (31%) of dogs were found to be carrying a tick, Andrew  Bucher, Chief Veterinary Officer at MedicAnimal has provided his thoughts to why the numbers are so high and what dog owners can do to treat ticks. A lack of adjustment to warmer winters prolonging the lives of ticks leaves pet owners and their animals at risk of contracting a range of illnesses.

Keeping up with the chores, the bedtime routine – and the dreaded school run are among the most stressful things about parenthood, a study has found. A poll of 2,000 parents found the average mum and dad spend almost two hours a day feeling stressed, with mornings in particular proving a minefield for parents.  5 of the 10 top parent stresses start the moment we wake up, with 28% agreeing that getting the children out of the door for the school run and settling back into the flow of the morning routine post-holiday, are key parenthood stress triggers.

Animal welfare charities are concerned the number of primates being kept as pets in ‘backyard Britain’ is on the rise as welfare complaints have increased three-fold in five years. An estimated 5,000 primates are being kept as pets up and down the UK - but new data suggests that many are suffering and not having vital social, dietary and environmental needs met.

The Ramblers is reminding people in the West Midlands to step out for Walk About this September - its biggest ever free nationwide walking event, offering a walk to suit everyone. The festival takes place from Saturday 3 September until Sunday 11 September. With over a thousand walks all over Britain, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – from a short stroll in the park to a challenging hike up a mountain.