While walking through the cemetery in Sudbury a little while ago, the Secretary of Great Waldingfield Horticultural Society, John Hughes, came across a heap of discarded benches. Not wanting to see them go to waste, John restored two of them. Now, on behalf of the Horticultural Society, he has kindly donated them to Branchlines for the new community woodland, Old School Wood, in Great Waldingfield. The benches were originally sited outside St Peter’s Church in Market Hill, Sudbury.
Yesterday local residents gathered at the wood for games, a picnic, and for the unveiling of the benches which have been beautifully refurbished and look very fine. John and Chris Francis, the Chairman of the Horticultural Society, are pictured above removing the rather theatrical velvet ceremonial covers that were supplied for the occasion.
As can be seen from the third photograph, Colin and I were quick to try the benches out, accompanied by the Chairman of Branchlines, Dr David Taylor, and Mrs Ann Francis.
Also seen above is a panoramic view over part of the new woodland. A good amount of rain since the trees were planted last year means that very few have died, and many are poking up with confidence above their protective sleeves. Even though the trees are still rather small a walk round the wood is a pleasant experience on a summer afternoon, with distant views of the church and the surrounding countryside to enjoy.
