A popular ranger, who has patrolled Leavesden Country Park over the past two and a half years, is to hang up his walking boots as he moves on to pastures new.

Park ranger Martin Brooks is leaving his position to work at St Michael’s School in High Elms Lane, as a facilities manager.

A familiar face around the park in College Road, the 53-year-old has been instrumental in helping to transform the area.

Under his careful guidance, the park achieved “Green Flag” status last year, presented to areas with good maintenance, cleanliness, safety and security by Keep Britain Tidy, GreenSpace and BTCV.

A keen historian, Mr Brooks, of Shirley Road, has also proved popular with locals for his walking talks on the Leavesden Asylum and its grounds.

And he said he hopes to continue with the tours after he has left his post.

He said: “I have had a wonderful time working in the park.

“I have so many fond memories of my time here – achieving green flag status, helping to set up the Friends of Leavesden Country Park group, the history talks – it’s all been really great.

“But what I will miss most will be chatting to locals - the residents and dog walkers passing through the park.

“And I must express my thanks to Three Rivers District Councillors Chris Whately-Smith, Stephen Giles-Medhurst and Keith Williams, who have been so supportive of the park and everything we do.

“I hope that Three Rivers will find someone to fill my position, it’s important that the park continues to thrive.

“I’m sad to be leaving. Leavesden Country Park has been part of my life for more than two years, it will always be part of me. But I’m ready now for a new challenge.”

Martin Brooks’ last day as a park ranger will be on Thursday, April 28.