Parks and green spaces across the country are under threat from council funding cuts, the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) has warned.

An APSE survey found 85% of its members expect their budgets to be cut by at least 5%, and as much as 15% in some areas.

APSE chief executive Mo Baines told BBC Politics North park funding should be protected.

‘They are an ill-health prevention issue for local authorities where people can exercise and socialise, it has a positive impact on physical activity and mental health,' she said.

‘But it also has a positive impact on family budgets, because they can take children to the local park where they can source free entertainment, kick the ball about and feed the ducks.'