A COMMUNITY group that’s helped transform Queens Park in Crewe were honoured at a prestigious local government service awards ceremony.

The Queens Park Ants – which stands for ‘action not talk – were presented by their finalists gong by international ice dance champion, Maria Filippov, at the Association for Public Excellence Awards (APSE) n Nottingham.

The ANTS, who conduct litter picks and renovation work were named in the ‘best public voluntary partnership working initiative’ category at the awards – which attracted around 400 submissions from all over the country.

“We are absolutely delighted to be named as finalists for this award as it not only recognises all our hard work in making a real difference to Queens Park but it also puts Queens Park on the map,” said ANTs co-ordinator, Leanne Hawthornwaite.

“We have only been going for a year but thanks to the huge community spirit and our partnership with Cheshire East Council and Ansa Environmental Services, we have already improved the park considerably.

“This recognition is a real boost for all the people who are out in the park giving up their free time whatever the weather and I would like to thank all the judges on behalf of all the ANTs for awarding us a finalist’s certificate.”

Queens Park is a 45-acre, Victorian Park in Crewe. It has undergone a £6.5m transformation, which included support-grant funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund of £2.7m and the remaining investment from WREN and Cheshire East Council.

The park now has a children’s play area, crown green bowling, ornamental lake, grassed areas, memorials and a lakeside pavilion. ANTs have also helped to secure £500,000 from Cheshire East Council, which will be used to finish the paths network at the park.

Councillor John Hammond, added: “I am delighted that ANTs has been recognised for the group’s hard work and dedication and that this service award recognises this.

“It is a shining example of Cheshire East Council, Ansa and the local community working together for a common cause.

Get involved with the ANTS via queensparkants@hotmail.com