The Friends of Harrow Weald and owners of the Parklife Cafe have launched a search for a prankster who played a practical joke in Boxtree Park, Harrow Weald, on April 1st, 1989.
The prankster is said to have stuck fake posters around the park warning of the ‘Black Death’, a deadly disease that ravaged Europe in the 14th century.
The posters, which have just again come to light, warned visitors to stay away from the park after the discovery of a grave containing the remains of two victims of the disease. In the posters, it was claimed that the park was now “infected” with the disease and warned of symptoms such as dark red swellings and vomiting, which could be fatal and that anyone who had these should seek urgent medical attention.
The Friends of Harrow Weald and the owners of the Parklife Cafe are appealing for information on the identity of the prankster. They have received a letter from someone who has sent them the original document as proof. The Friends of Harrow Weald are offering a reward for any information leading to the identity of the prankster, and have invited them to come forward for a cup of tea.
In the spirit of April Fools’ Day, the Friends of Harrow Weald have also issued a reminder to people to play harmless pranks on their friends and neighbours this April 1st. They are encouraging people to be bold and break their own barriers to create a smile for someone else.
This story highlights the enduring appeal of April Fools’ Day and the power of a good practical joke. Despite the passage of 34 years, the Harrow Weald prankster’s joke is still remembered with fondness and humour.
If anyone wants to see the letter themselves, they can head down to the Parklife Cafe which is located just opposite Lidl in Harrow Weald. Directions can be found here.
