Calls to rename Cripplegate Park in case it causes offence

Helen Richards has lived in Worcester since the age of three and said the name has always made her feel sad and uncomfortable.

Cripplegate comes from an old English word which means low opening in a fence or wall, to allow the passage of sheep from one field to another.

Ms Richards, however, fears some people will be offended by the use of the word 'cripple' and believes the park in Tybridge Street should be renamed in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.

Cripplegate Park in Worcester (Image: NQ)

Historian Paul Harding, who runs Discover History with wife Helen, said the park's name has been called into question before but believes it should remain.

Mr Harding said: "The name has been brought up before and each time I can see the views of both sides.

"After discussing it, it is usually forgotten about again.

"The term 'Cripplegate' is very old and not tied to Worcester. It's a term used across Britain meaning 'restriction'.

"In this case, a narrow passage or lane to control cattle before they cross the city bridge."

However, Ms Richards, age 63, said: "It's so sad, it's such a beautiful area and why not make it better by giving it a pretty name?

"I'm a mother of six and I have so many fond memories of having picnics at the park. 

"The name is misleading because people will make the assumption that disabled people used to gather there to beg or be fed in the past and some of them could be children.

READ MORE: Should one of Worcester's parks be renamed to honour the Queen?

"That is the obvious connection they make, you don't think it means narrow passage.

"The name might stop people from using the park, the name of the park makes me feel uncomfortable and sad and I automatically made that connection. 

"In modern language, that is the obvious connection.

"I have lived in Worcester most of my life and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else."

Mr Harding added: "Personally, I don't think the park should be renamed.

"But if the powers to be were going to rename the park, I have numerous suggestions including Yeoman Park or Qatia Park.

"This will link to the fact that the park houses a poppy memorial to the Worcestershire Yeomanry who fought bravely at the Battles of Oghrantina and Qatia in 1916."

St John's councillor Richard Udall also said he would be reluctant to change the park's name.

He said: "The name Cripplegate has nothing to do with disability.

"The area has been known as Cripplegate for hundreds of years and it is where people took cover before being allowed to cross the river into Worcester, usually with animals going to market."