By Community Correspondent Enya Jha.

At long last, after what seemed like an endless winter packed with snow, rain and storms, sunshine hit Croydon – the closest thing we have seen to summer all year.

The start of April was unusually sunny and a dramatic change to the first three months of 2010. Despite this, it was evident that it was very much welcomed, as instantaneously the number of people in local parks rose.

The second week of April, in particular, boasted a large amount of sunshine, with temperatures reaching 18˚C - the highest they have been all year. However, this seemed to be an exception, as for many of the other days the bitter chill of winter remained. Nevertheless, regardless of the cold weather, the sun showed its presence, which was enough for people to bring out their summer wardrobe.

Sunglasses were being worn, ice cream vans were back in business and most parks had children present. It seemed to not have come at a better time since every school in the area was off for Easter holidays, meaning local school children could take advantage of the luxurious weather.

“I’ve loved the recent weather, as it has been sunny for nearly all of the Easter holidays. It definitely brings out the best in people, who seem to be generally more cheery just because of the weather”, says Emma Bird, a member of Croydon High School Sixth Form. “After going to my first barbeque of the year last Saturday, it finally feels like summer”.

Lloyd Park, located in South Croydon, seems to have been extremely busy recently, which is unsurprising with it being one of the largest parks in the area.

It seems that the improved weather is having a positive impact on all locals, from the elderly to schoolchildren. Let’s hope that this really is the start of summer, and we have the sunshine for the following months to come!