A LEIGH resident, who regularly uses Lilford Park which closed by foot and mouth restrictions since the outbreak, has called for it to be reopened.

She claims that despite the park gates being locked to the public, gardeners with allotments are still gaining entrance.

The angry mum, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: "The situation is ridiculous. If Chester Zoo and Tatton Park can be reopened so can a little park like Lilford, which has a small pets' corner.

"I care as much for the little animals as anyone, but people don't know what the situation is and want some enlightenment.

"Notices and fences are missing and people are still getting in there though the gates are shut.

"Children are gaining entrance through the back of the park where railings are down, and if one is injured ambulances will not to be able to get through. Perhaps someone will let us know what is going on and when it will be open again."

A council spokesman said: "We are still monitoring the situation and hope to make a decision on May 9. In the meantime the allotment holders are allowed to tend their plots because they are going no further into the park.

"If the public was allowed in they would use footpaths which run close to where animals are being reared, and this cannot be allowed for the time being."