Tributes paid to Mac, the 'much-loved' park keeper

Stuart MacDonald (or "Mac") had worked at East Park for more than half a century

A "much loved" park keeper who looked after the city's green spaces for 54 years has died.

Stuart MacDonald, fondly known as "Mac", was a "wonderful, kind and hardworking character" who would be "sadly missed", Hull City Council said.

"His love for East Park for more than 40 years was phenomenal," the authority added in a statement.

Mr MacDonald retired last year at the aged of 78. At the time, he told the BBC he had enjoyed meeting "lovely people from all walks of life".

Having joined the council in July 1971, Mr MacDonald built up an extensive knowledge of the history of the parks, along with a collection of photographs, which he liked to share with visitors.

His dedication was particularly evident at Christmas, when he ran a Santa's grotto and sold wreaths for the Friends of East Park group, the council said.

Mr MacDonald saw many changes during his 40 years at East Park (original photographer unknown)

One of the aspects of the job he enjoyed most was carrying dog biscuits in his "little van", with several off-lead dogs running up to him.

Mr MacDonald had originally hoped to retire at 80 but had to bring things forward due to ill health.

On his retirement last year, East Park manager Howard Flitton said: "You'll never get anyone with so much passion and commitment to the park.

"There are not many people I know who actually want to work Christmas Day, and he has done for as many [years] as I can remember."

The council said its thoughts were with Mr MacDonald's family and friends.

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