AFTER more than four decades working for Worcester City Council a "hard working" park keeper has decided to hang up his hedge clippers.

Neal Bushell, from Barbourne in Worcester, has been responsible for keeping Gheluvelt Park in Worcester in prized condition for regular park visitors in his role as park keeper for the last four years.

But having worked across the city's parks since he was 16, the 58-year-old decided to move on to the next stage of his life after officially retiring in November last year.

"I worked at Gheluvelt park for four years but before that I had been dodging around in all sorts of different roles," he said.

"I've been a team leader, maintenance, I worked at the racecourse and most parks in Worcester, so I've lived quite a multi-cultural life.

"It's been fantastic. I've had many experiences good and bad, but I have gotten to know many people so I have loved the last four years."

Gheluvelt Park held a special leaving party for Mr Bushell on Saturday, April 20 that was described as a "mark of appreciation" for his work.

Worcester News: Members and regular visitors of Gheluvelt park gathered for a special leaving party for Mr Bushell [Third from left] on April 20Members and regular visitors of Gheluvelt park gathered for a special leaving party for Mr Bushell [Third from left] on April 20 (Image: Friends of Gheluvelt)

Mr Bushell holds a special connection to Gheuvelt park as his mother lived on the park in one of the military houses that were built specifically for ex-service men and women.

"My mom lived on the park as her husband was in the army," he said.

"But I worked there because I applied for it, not because of her - although that was a bonus."

Mr Bushell admits he's still getting used to retirement describing it as a "shock at first", but plans to use his free time to enjoy fishing and cycling.

Ian Hylton-Turvey, interim chair of Gheluvlet Park, said: "He was hard working and devoted to keeping the park looking presentable as it was unused and unloved many years ago.

"His work was highly appreciated and played a key part in keeping it well maintained.

"He managed to do his job while engaging with the community and supporting people in the park, applying practical wisdom along the way.

"There is not many who wouldn't have known or appreciated his work, he was always positive, good humoured and purposeful with a can-do attitude."

Community member of Gheluvelt Park, Jude Allen, said Mr Bushell helped transform the park into the "beautiful location" that is has become.

"He was really hard working, friendly, and always took his time to say hello," she said.

"He'd be sweeping leaves, checking the flower beds - he was always busy.

"He supported our events whether it was bands playing in the park or community events and would help out, he's a really good guy.

"Regular users have said the park isn't quite as good as it was, so he will be missed."