Work on the Armed Forces Community Garden at Hillfield Park is progressing well with most of the planting completed, paths created, new seating arranged and wildflowers seeded. Preparations are also underway for the Garden’s official opening on Friday 16 July.
In the lead up to its opening, the Royal British Legion and Solihull Council will be speaking to some of the people involved about what the Armed Forces Community Garden means to them. In the first of these videos, the Royal British Legion spoke to local resident Neill Marshall who lost his brother in active service. Neill explained how our beautiful Garden will be the perfect place to bring his children to talk about his brother and reflect on all those who have lost their lives during active service. You can watch the video here
Councillor Alison Rolf, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Safer and Stronger Communities and the Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “It’s been incredible to see the designs for this beautiful garden transformed into reality in just a few months. The peaceful sanctuary for veterans, their families and the local community, is really taking shape and it’s lovely to hear from Neill that this place will be the space for reflection that we hoped for.”
Councillor Ken Hawkins, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways, added: “The local community has already taken this Garden to its heart. During the last year, green spaces and wildlife have become increasingly important for all of us as we take time to reflect. I feel that this Garden builds on that appreciation that we are all feeling, with a very beautiful space for people to find comfort and peace.”
Watch out for further updates via the Royal British Legion’s and Solihull Council’s websites and social media channels.