THE chief executive of the Royal Parks has spoken about her pride at seeing images of those open spaces beamed around the world for the Olympics.

Linda Lennon said: “I was just so proud of how Greenwich appeared on the television and I’ve had lots of really positive feedback.

“People are saying it’s got to be one of the most fantastic, iconic locations for the Games.”

Ms Lennon, who says the tractor jump from the horse-riding will be used in the park’s children’s playground, said the park management team had been working hard to make sure the acid grasslands were protected and preserved.

And the chief executive said she was happy with the way the Greenwich landmark was being reopened, insisting  it was going according to plan.

She said: “Restoring the park is an absolutely key aim for us.

“What we’re not going to do is have a quick fix. It’s going to be restored to as good if not better quality than it was before.

“With some parts, it will inevitably take longer than others.”

Along with Greenwich, the Games have featured places like Richmond Park and Hyde Park, which has its own live site featuring guest appearances from Olympic heroes like Jessica Ennis, Sir Chris Hoy and Bradley Wiggins.

Wiggins, of course, took victory in the road cycling, part of which travelled through Richmond.

Ms Lennon said: “The pictures of the canopies were absolutely amazing.

“It worked really well in Richmond and I’ve really appreciated the local friends’ groups who, like the Royal parks, really care about the parks.”

She said: “I can’t believe that people worldwide will not come and see the parks now. I think they offer something for everybody.”