Community sadness at loss of 'park angel' Karen

TRIBUTES have been paid to a woman who dedicated time every day to pick up litter in her local park in Bristol, who has died from cancer months after a surprise party to celebrate her efforts.

- TRISTAN CORK

Karen Rich was dubbed the Angel of Redcatch Park after the Knowle resident became a familiar face with her litter-picker and rubbish bag, quietly picking up the rubbish every day.

Last summer, modest Karen was surprised by her neighbours and park volunteers with a party and a trip to City Hall to be awarded a prestigious Lord Mayor's Medal to honour her services to the community.

The heartwarming moment she walked in to her surprise party was captured by photographer Paul Gillis, as years of doing something valuable on a daily basis were recognised with a big “thank you” from her local community.