Wandle Park in Colliers Wood was formerly the site of Wandle Park House, built about 1791 and demolished in 1962. The park lies alongside the River Wandle, an area rich in early industrial history. It was opened to the public in 1907. A 3-sided stone drinking fountain (one of two in the park) at the southern end, commemorates the opening and has a plaque with inscriptions on three sides, one of which is as follows: 'This garden is given for the enjoyment of the people of Wimbledon and Merton in memory of John Feeney of Birmingham and Berkswell, one who loved nature and his fellow men.' In 1996 water was diverted from the Wandle, a reed bed (an uncommon habitat in Merton) and settlement pond was constructed. The pond is instrumental in slowing down hard surface water flow thus reducing flooding further downstream. Within the park the stream passes through watercress beds. Dragonflies and damselflies often frequent this wet area, including common darter (Sympetrum striolatum) and southern hawker (Aeshna cyanea). Dense vegetation in the park is valuable habitat for insects and invertebrates providing food for visiting House Sparrows, Dunnock, Wren, Long-tailed Tit, Blackcaps and others. Common Kingfishers. Little Egret and Grey Heron fish in the streams and the tall trees provide nesting sites for larger birds including Sparrowhawk. There are fine mature Willows and Planes, natural hedgerows and recently planted native woodland copses. Four new bridges and new pathways in strategic positions allow access to all parts of the park. Leaving the park you can follow the course of the river and continue along the Wandle Valley nature trail into Wandle Meadow and beyond. Photos and images of the park, its abundant wildlife and natural habitats are the property of Wildlife Photographer, and Colliers Wood resident, David Element. Here is a link to his published online book, In My Natural Element. https://www.bobbooks.co.uk/bookshop/photobook/in-my-natural-element-the-wildlife-of-wandle-park-5