A FATHER is calling for Bolton Council to keep park gates open — and free of broken glass — after he was unable to take his newborn baby for a walk.

Ian Wilcox had planned a visit to Longsight Park in Harwood with his baby girl and five-year-old daughter — but found he was unable to get in with the pram.

The 38-year-old, who lives close to the park, said: “I thought it would be nice to take my daughter to the local park but found there were a number of obstacles, which meant I couldn’t get in.

“The main gate was locked meaning I had to try an alternative route in but there was loads of broken glass and a great big boulder in the way.

“I was appalled — I just thought there was no concern for people who could get injured trying to get into the park.”

The Bolton News contacted Bolton Council about the issue and a spokesperson confirmed the gate was now open and the glass had been cleared up.

Mr Wilcox said he is pleased this problems have been dealt with.

He added: “I just hope it stays that way.

“I just wanted to save a bad situation where a child could have potentially got hurt and I think that the council should be doing all they can to encourage families to use local parks.”