Peter Domankiewicz from Friends of Lloyd Park spells out the work the group has been doing over the years and how to get involved

Lloyd Park is known as the “jewel in the crown” of Walthamstow’s parks and there is a group that aims to help locals get the most out of it: the Friends of Lloyd Park (FOLP).
Way back in 2002 the council was talking about refurbishing Lloyd Park. Founder member, Adrian Stannard, felt it important the local community should be involved and got the Waltham Forest Guardian to run a short article about the need for users of the park to volunteer to join the group.
Quickly, people came forward and FOLP was launched. Since the major 2012 refurbishment of the park and the William Morris Gallery, FOLP has been actively running events and supporting activities in this beloved green space.
The main aims of FOLP are to create a sense of community, be a liaison between the public and the council, and to lobby
for improvements. These have included adding playground equipment, expanding the skate park, campaigning for better
conservation of the moat and saving the fallen eucalyptus tree to be turned into a new piece of park furniture.
FOLP organises an expanding roster of free public events during the year. The May Fair with its legendary (and highly entertaining) Dog Show is a staple, as is the Festive Singalong with local choirs, which this year expanded into a wonderfully successful Festive Fayre, including local craftspeople and activities for children.

The Oktoberfest (sadly cancelled this year due to weather) is a newer addition and this July a very successful Summer
Picnic was a first step towards developing a celebration to replace the much-missed Walthamstow Garden Party.
As 2025 begins, FOLP is looking to get more local people involved and that involvement can be at any level or time commitment. It might be volunteering to help with an event, assisting with social media and publicity, or leading on a key
project – whatever useful skills or time you feel you have to offer.
It could be a few hours now and then, but the group would love some new committee members who could offer ongoing commitment. Council leader Grace Williams comments that the group is “a local treasure, made up of residents working tirelessly over many years to support and improve our park”.
Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy is also a keen supporter, having said: “The Friends of Lloyd Park make Lloyd Park – whether it’s their legendary dog show, their Christmas parties or even just being custodians of the greenspace it would not be the same without them. Anyone who loves the park should get involved and I look forward to working with them – and judging dogs in fancy dress – in 2025 too.”
There will be a meeting in January to explain the work of the group and range of opportunities. To find out more
email: [email protected]
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