The world’s smallest park is hoping the luck of the Irish will help it see of a Burntwood challenge for its crown.
A challenge has been lodged against Mill Ends Park in the USA after it was described as “a glorified flower pot”.
Princes Park in Burntwood would stand to take the Guinness World Record if the current holder in Portland is disqualified.
However, the American city believe they have a ‘magical’ weapon in their bid to see off the challenge.
“Mill Ends Park is much more than a ‘glorified plant pot’,” said a smiling Mike Abbaté, Director of Portland Parks & Recreation. “It has a small size but a huge history and legacy in our city.
“Mill Ends is revered by thousands and has been for years. It has been the site of St Patrick’s Day festivities, of community volunteer efforts – well, I suppose putting a cat’s water dish in the park and calling it a ‘swimming pool’ counts as volunteer efforts!
“Nevertheless, it is an important leprechaun sanctuary, the only such site west of Ireland and we treasure it as a valued Portland park.
“There’s nothing like a summer day having a picnic in Mill Ends Park – if you’re able to comfortably fit in it.”
The challenge has been lodged by KP Events director Kevin Wilson who is behind a world’s shortest fun run charity fundraiser around Princes Park in May.
But Mr Abbaté has jokingly warned that his city wouldn’t mind another record too.
“Mill Ends is weeded, watered, planted and maintained like every other park in our National Gold Medal-winning system,” he added.
“As for the World’s Shortest Fun Run, a simple lap around Mill Ends Park will accomplish that record as well.
“We’d love to have you chaps over and show off Mill Ends when you make it across the pond.”
