NAMED after a local Earl, Sefton Park was completed in the mid 19th century in the south end of Liverpool. The lush greenery surrounds a large arc-shaped lake, which was a favourite recreation spot for a teenage Paul McCartney who would row boats there. There is also a bandstand that many locals believe was an inspiration for the Beatles 60s concept Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Sunday League football is as popular as ever and keen anglers are out in all weathers. Sadly, notable landmarks such as the statue of Eros - a copy of the one in London's Piccadilly - and the Jolly Roger pirate ship, have fallen into decay due to neglect, but a determined council effort has been made to return them to their former glories. The Victorian Palm House again suffered at the hands of vandals, but has now been pane-stakingly renovated and re-opened. Park Rangers have been tireless in helping put 'Seffie Park' - as it is affectionately known - back on the Merseyside map. In the 80s and 90s, Larks in the Park concerts and the Summer Pops shows took place there. It is still home to annual fireworks displays. One major addition has been the Daffodil Fields where, in 1991, one million bulbs were planted by the Marie Curie Foundation for Cancer Research. Each Spring it is a picture of hope and optimism. Sefton Park, which is a focal point of the Aigburth area, is one of the city's most popular attractions and is an ideal picnic area, place to stroll or location for a healthy jog. | 
