Bushy Park is providing members of the local charity, Friends of Bushy and Home Parks, with a wonderful opportunity to have their say on where newly installed benches should be situated across the beautiful parkland.

Whilst taking in the gorgeous scenery, the perfect location to perch can be an optimal way of experiencing the charm Bushy Park has to offer, for others, the right bench in the right area can act as an ideal break from a long hike or walk.

Park Manager Phil Edwards has asked for help from the local charity in suggesting new locations as he intends to replace existing warn-out benches.

There are around 100 benches across Bushy Park which are not always located in an ideal spot, especially for those less mobile wanting to enjoy a view.

Now, members of the organisation working to continually support the beloved Bushy Park are able to have their say and offer suggestions as to where spots would be preferable and would help to benefit the public's experience when visiting the royal parkland.

Is your favourite spot in Bushy Park missing a bench for you to perch? Now is your chance to change that!

From September 3rd until October 30th, a map board will be situated in the Visitor Centre where members of the charity can place a sticker with their suggested location. The visitor centre is open at weekends between 10am to 4pm.

Alternatively, you can send an email to Jeannie Edwards at [email protected] containing your proposed location and explaining why you think it is appropriate.

When submitting your recommendations, Mr Edwards and Friends of Bushy and Homes Parks have asked the public to bare a few notes of guidance.

1. There will be two types of benches installed. The first is what many may expect, that is a seat with a back and arms at each end (Type A). 
2. The second is more of a bench, that is a "plank" without a back or arms (Type B). The former is used to sit opposite an obvious view or provide a longer rest. The latter is suitable for being located where there is a view in either direction or is suitable for taking a breather on a walk. Bear these aspects in mind when determining your suggested location(s).
3. Benches should not be located beneath a tree. While shade might be your consideration, the reality is that trees can drop limbs, especially the large older specimens, which is a risk; trees are where birds sit and make a mess which is unpleasant for the park user and requires more maintenance for the bench. 
4. Benches which have been donated in the past and carry plaques may need to be retained in their present location, or near it. If you have concerns about any such bench, let us know.
5. While we want your suggestions, we can't guarantee that your suggestion will be successful. The Royal Parks will have the final decision on the location of the benches. 

The Friends of Bushy and Home Parks is a charity dedicated to the protection, conservation, improvement and increased appreciation of the parks.

They are composed entirely of members, many of whom are volunteers. They have no employed and full-time staff and work with The Royal Parks' and with Historic Royal Palaces' management teams to achieve their aims.

To discover more on the charity's work or to submit a donation or become a member, head over to their website here.