Borehamwood's Maxwell Hillside Park could become an important educational site for schoolchildren, following a survey of its wildflowers and wildlife.

Countryside Management Service (CMS) project officer Rachel Keen visited the park, in Maxwell Road, on Thursday last week, and identified wildflowers, like cuckoo flower and sneezewort, and wildlife, including meadow brown butterflies.

She also found a range of grasses and herbs at the park, in addition to the types of flowers present on traditional meadows, because the area has not been treated with herbicides and pesticides for the past 50 years.

Ms Keen, who was joined by some Borehamwood residents interested in her study to determine whether the park is a County Wildlife Site, added: "This type of habitat has declined in the county by 90 per cent over the past 50 years."

The survey was also carried out on behalf of Hertsmere Borough Council, which, following the results of the survey, hopes to be instructed by the CMS on how to maintain and improve the site. David Clarke, council senior landscape officer, said schools may be invited to visit the site as an educational resource. adding: "We are very happy to improve wildlife in our park, and offer some variety to people who visit the park."

July 3, 2002 14:30