Fundraiser for new memorial garden

A coffee morning to raise funds for a new memorial garden in Aylsham Churchyard will be held at Aylsham Town Hall on Saturday May 9.

The event will take place between 10am and 1pm with the aim of adding to the funding that has already been gratefully received towards the project, which will honour both those affected by the Covid pandemic and the women’s suffrage movement.

The garden is set to be created along the wall to right of Aylsham Heritage Centre as you look at it. The Rev Canon Julie Boyd, Rector for Aylsham Parish Church, said: “We hope that people will come and join us on the day. There will be gardening activities for the children, a plant stall, tombola and raffle.
“There will be delicious refreshments to come and enjoy, and you will be able to see the Human Fruit Machine in action. Always lots of fun! It’s also an opportunity to come and find out more about the garden.”

The memorial garden project is being overseen by the Churchyard Committee of Aylsham Town Council, which includes representation from Aylsham in Bloom and Aylsham Parish Church.

PEACEFUL SETTING: A new memorial garden will be created in Aylsham Churchyard

Town Councillor Mary Evans said: “The original idea for a Memorial Garden in Aylsham dates back to 2018, when it was felt that a centenary of women having the vote should be commemorated.
“It was also felt that women had always played a big part in the activities of the town.
“However, the planning of this small garden within the churchyard was delayed by the onset of the Covid pandemic.
“It was later decided that the Memorial Garden should also commemorate those who suffered during Covid and to remember all those who worked and gave comfort during this time.”

Wendy Sadler, co-ordinator of Aylsham in Bloom, has helped lead the planting scheme for the memorial garden.
Describing the meaning of the plants to be used, she said: “Around the new bench will be planted lavender and rosemary. “They will reflect the colours of the Suffragettes, white, green and purple. In the Language of Flowers rosemary is always for remembrance.”