THE folk of the Faithful City are being encouraged to get out in the fresh air and make the most of the improvements to the city's parks.

A marathon walk, a six-a-side football tournament for teenagers, a toddlers wildlife walk and pop music in the park are among a string of events taking place this week as part of Love Parks Week.

The national initiative, organised by charity GreenSpace, is aimed at getting more people to use and enjoy their local parks.

Today, a new service allowing people to log on and share their thoughts on Worcester's parks will be launched by the Mayor at Fort Royal Park. Called GreenStat, and provided by GreenSpace, it offers the first comprehensive national system for feedback.

Ian Yates, parks manager for Worcester City Council, said the people of the city had every reason to use their recreational facilities. He said: "Worcester's parks have improved a lot in recent years. Play areas have improved, there have been more activities taking place, and more staff to help visitors."

Events taking place this week include:

Today: 10am-noon Launch of GreenStat - Fort Royal Park, Sidbury.

Thursday: 11.15am-12.15pm toddlers wildlife toddle, meeting at play area in Gheluvelt Park, Barbourne.

Thursday: 6pm-9pm youth six-a-side football league, King George V Park, Brickfields.

Friday: 11am-12.30pm, and 2.30pm-4.30pm, music in the park at Gheluvelt Park, Barbourne.

Sunday: 2pm-4.30pm, music in the park at Cripplegate Park, Tybridge Street.