Clubs at Westminster Park are offering free taster sessions enabling visitors of all ages and abilities to try their hand at activities ranging from mini golf to tennis and even croquet as part of the 80th anniversary celebrations on 9 May.

The free event, which marks eight decades since the Grosvenor family gifted a 999-year lease of the land off Hough Green to the community as a public park for sport and recreation, takes place on Saturday 9 May, 1–4pm.

Made possible through funding from His Grace, The Duke of Westminster, the event brings together the communities and clubs that use the popular green space, recognising the essential role the park has played in promoting physical and mental wellbeing, strengthening communities and enhancing the environment.

This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the nine-hole golf course, part of GreenDay Café and Golf, operated by Ken Moodie.

Ken, who is also part of the Friends of Westminster Park that are organising the event, said: “The golf course is a local gem and has been a huge part of the park community for 50 years, providing a fun way for people to be active and socialise.

“To celebrate, we’ll be offering free mini-golf for juniors from 10am-4pm and golf taster sessions for all on the nine-hole-course from 1-4pm. We’d love people to come along, have a go and see how welcoming the course is – whether you’re picking up a club for the first time, practising your short game, or just fancy a fun afternoon with the family.

“The whole event promises to be fantastic celebration of all the benefits the park provides to Chester. We’re hoping lots of people come down, join in the fun and try something new.”

Alongside the golf, visitors will have the opportunity to try taster sessions including junior tennis, croquet, cricket nets.

A marquee will feature displays from clubs, residents’ associations, Chester Zoo on nature recovery, and representatives from Cheshire West and Chester Council’s greenspaces team as well as music and refreshments.

The Duke and Duchess of Westminster will attend the event, where they will meet members of the park community and unveil a commemorative plaque as well as newly planted trees on the park’s nature trails.

The Friends of Westminster Park are inviting people of all ages to share photos and memories to help build a social history of the park. Images and stories can be shared via the Friends of Westminster Park Facebook page or emailed to parkhistory@macfadyen.net.

Westminster Park holds Green Flag status, an international award recognising well-managed green spaces. Amenities include nature trails, play areas, an outdoor gym, running circuits, picnic benches and a BMX track.