The location has been shortlisted and yesterday it was peppered with students, families and couples demonstrating why.

Among them was student Kayleigh Greenland, 18, of Telephone Road, who said: 'It's nice being able to revise outside. All the students come here. It's a nice atmosphere and it's close to the sea.'

Ice cream seller, Jack Peregrin, 25, of Kent Road, thinks the common's proximity to the sea and the city make it the ideal spot.

'We chose to live here over other places because of the common's vast grass area – it's great for sports. It's by the sea – that's the key.'

Fans of the space are being urged to vote for the common in this year's Warburtons Picnic Awards.

The green area is battling against 10 rival locations from the south east in a regional heat, before it has a chance to compete nationally.

Matt Hart, 26, of Elm Grove, enjoys the relaxed attitude the council has to those who want to lunch on the grass.

'We come here because we can have barbecues, and it seems the council is quite relaxed about allowing you to have a drink.'

To vote for Southsea Common visit www.welove bread.co.uk

As you cast your vote, you will be automatically entered into a prize draw to win a picnic at Central Park in New York.

The closing day for votes in the regional round is tomorrow with the south east's regional winner being announced during the week beginning Monday, June 2.