Park warden stops family pictures

The family were on their own in the playground

A park warden tried to stop a couple from taking photographs of their own daughter playing on a swing.

Steve Brook and Mandy Smith were with toddler Rebecca in Alexandra Park, Oldham, when the warden said it was illegal to snap children in the park.

Mr Brook said the incident had "beggared belief".

An Oldham Council spokesman said that the warden had misinterpreted rules designed to protect children and had been "made aware of his actions".

'Incorrect interpretation'

Mr Brook said the man approached the couple as they pushed their 11-month-old daughter on the swing.

"It beggars belief that a mother and father cannot take their own daughter to the park and take photographs - especially since we were the only people in there," he said.

A council spokesman said staff were "instructed to be observant and aware of the activities of park users and consider whether they are appropriate".

"This incident was due to the incorrect interpretation of policy by a member of our security staff who has since been made aware of his actions," he added.