The Usseregg playground is actually a wonderful place: children play, families have barbecues, and people from different countries meet up. That’s how it should be.

However, some visitors seem to believe that, after a cosy get-together, someone else is responsible for clearing up the mess. Overflowing rubbish bins, cigarette ends, food scraps, dog mess and dirty toilets, unfortunately, speak for themselves.

A heartfelt thank you, therefore, to the council staff who, the next morning, ensure that the playground is at least somewhat usable again. Perhaps, however, it would be fairer if those who create the mess were to take some responsibility for it.

The parking situation at the weekend is also a nuisance. Cars are parked wherever there’s space, whilst pedestrians, pushchairs and wheelchair users have to struggle through the blind bend. Consideration for others seems to end where one’s own parking space begins.

On the other hand, the lovely woodwork by ‘Süre Fränzl’ is a real delight. The carved tractor and the marble run with the little bells show just how much joy you can bring to children with simple, lovingly crafted items.

And then there’s Tuesday: a fitness group monopolises the cable pull for about an hour – complete with upbeat music and a personal trainer. Nothing against sport, but does a public playground really have to be used as a private gym? The children could watch during this time and learn how to wait patiently in the process.

The Usseregg is a public playground, not a car park, not a dog toilet, not a rubbish tip and certainly not a gym.

Perhaps all visitors should bear this in mind before they leave the site: it’s no problem if lots of people come. The problem starts when consideration and respect are left at home. Marianne & Jörg Grossenbacher