A park keeper who looked after Islington’s public spaces for almost 40 years has locked up for the last time.

Bride Young worked for Islington Council at Asteys Row Playground in Canonbury for 16 years from 1974.

In recent years she worked at Thornhill Square and became well known in the community.

On her last day, October 30, colleagues and local residents gave Bride a fond farewell and she was presented with a gift by council contractor Enterprise.

Bride said: “I’ve really enjoyed the job and the interaction it has brought with children and local residents.”

Bride was friendly and would tackle anti-social behaviour in the parks.

Cllr Paul Smith, Islington Council’s executive member for environment, said: “For many years Bride has been out in all weathers to serve the people of Islington.

“Bride is a shining example of the hard work that keeps Islington’s parks in good shape for our residents and I wish her all the best for her well-earned retirement.”