I’m very lucky to have Tooting Common on my doorstep. It’s my favourite place to stretch my legs and take in some fresh air. As most Londoners will know, you start to feel a bit claustrophobic from time to time, so it’s great to have a lovely green area to enjoy. The thing I love most about the Common is how beautifully maintained it is. The fact it’s always left clean and tidy is a true testement to the many people that use and care for it. There’s a lovely sense of community and a group of local residents called the Friends of Tooting Common who organise regular workdays and raise funds to spend on the Common.

The facilities on the Common are great. There’s a playground, athletics track, tennis courts and a lido, plus a little cafe on the Balham side of the Common. Being a coffee fiend, I would have to say that they do a very good latte. I could sit there for hours and people spot; mothers with prams, dog walkers, sporty types and people just taking in the air. There’s always a real buzz about the place.

Photo courtesy of HerryLawford on Flickr