A petition urging the council to reinstate a much loved ice cream vendor at The Rye has reached nearly 1,000 signatures.

Lisetta had served ice cream at the park, from her yellow and white van, for thirty years.

Residents have voiced their concerns following news that her pitch had been awarded to another trader after a 'council tender process'.

The Free Press understands that Lisetta's last day at The Rye was on Friday, May 22.

A petition was set up to urge the council to reconsider its decision, claiming there has been 'widespread discontent and disappointment' since the announcement.

As of June 1, the petition has 993 verified signatures.

A Just Giving page was also set up, currently it has raised £1,501 to thank Lisetta for her service.

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Under the original Bucks Free Press article about the ice cream van, multiple people have commented their feelings on the matter.

Tracy Gwilliam said: "The most genuine, kindest, caring lady I've ever had the pleasure to meet.

"I've known of this lady and her family for over 20 years, very sad to see the pitch lost."

Others spoke about how Lisetta had seen their children, or grandchildren, grow up.

Margaret Emm commented: "She has known my grandchildren since they were pre school.

"She always remembered their names and had time for a chat.

"They are now grown up and l know will be devastated to hear she has lost her spot.

"She's part of their... and l'm sure hundreds of other children's... growing up story!"

A Facebook post showed Lisetta's van at Totteridge Recreation Park on Saturday, May 23.

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Peter Brazier, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Culture & Leisure, said: "We recognise the strength of feeling in the community about the change of ice cream vendor at The Rye in High Wycombe.

"The ice cream van pitch is part of the council’s Park Pop-Ups scheme, which helps fund the upkeep of our parks and open spaces.

"Concessions are awarded through an open, competitive process based on quality and value.

"Following this year’s tender, a new operator was selected as the strongest overall bid, with proven experience of trading in Buckinghamshire parks.

"We are working with the previous vendor to secure another pitch, and we will continue to support local traders wherever possible.

"Licences are awarded for one year, and applications for concessions, including pitches such as The Rye, are expected to open again next season, giving everyone the opportunity to apply.

"We thank residents for their continued support of our parks and the local businesses that help bring them to life."