Churchfields Recreation Ground in Hanwell came alive to celebration and remembrance last Sunday (29 June 2025), as the community gathered to mark the 50th anniversary of Brent River Park.
But beyond the maypole dancing, bluebell stiltwalkers, Morris dancers and wildlife walks, it was the voices of those who spoke – campaigners, politicians, conservationists – that brought the story of the park’s past, present and future vividly to life.
At the heart of the celebration was the unveiling of a new sign commemorating the park’s founder, Luke FitzHerbert.
Kabir Kaul, conservationist and special adviser to Brent River Park, said as he launched the park’s new ‘Big Five’ fundraising campaign: “Luke believed in connecting communities through nature. These Brent River Park ‘Big Five!’ ambitions will not only make the park better for nature, but also for everyone who loves it — boosting mental health, deepening bonds with friends and neighbours, and equipping future generations with the skills they need to tackle the climate and nature crises.”
Mr Kaul added: “We’d be very grateful for anything that you can give. So please join us — and as Luke said 50 years ago, let’s make it happen.”
Brent River Park secretary Katie Boyles, who co-organised the day, reflected on the park’s origins and the need to preserve its spirit: She said: “It can be easy to take this urban countryside for granted now… but it came about through the dedication of those early campaigners and the Ealing councillors who had the imagination to see it through.”
Ms Boyles added: “It’s important for us to honour those who created the Brent River Park 50 years ago while also looking to the future… We are now in a climate and ecological emergency… we are passionate, unpaid volunteers and all donations received, big and small, will help support us in bringing these ambitions to life.”
Kate Ashbrook, director of the Open Spaces Society, spoke of continuity and vigilance: “Our founders would have been proud of what has been achieved here in Ealing… We have been pleased to help the BRCS in defending the Brent River Park from enclosure… residents must lobby their councillors to ensure that they invest in green spaces.”
Dr Sean McCormack, chair of Ealing Wildlife Group, struck a personal and emotional chord. “50 years ago, Luke Fitzherbert advocated for nature connection with passion, independent thinking and a strong sense of justice… Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.”
And in a final note of gratitude, Brent River Park treasurer Steven Toft paid tribute to the community, and to those who started it all: “A big ‘Thank You’ to everybody… But most of all, thank you to Luke and those early campaigners… This day was for them.”
To support Brent River Park’s ‘Big Five!’ fundraiser, click here.
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