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COVID-19 Memorial Garden opens in Gadebridge Park


Memorial garden opening in Gadebridge Park, Hemel HempsteadA new Memorial Garden in Gadebridge Park has been built to remember those who lost their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The community joined together at an opening event on Saturday 16 July 2022.

The focal point of the garden is a remembrance tree, which was planted in October, with four benches, wildflower planting and a new path for access.

Hemel Hempstead resident Margaret Sharp worked with Rt Hon Sir Mike Penning MP to raise funds in the community and from local businesses to pay for the tree, which was provided at cost by Majestic Trees, in Flamstead.

Margaret attended the event and said how moved she was to see the garden open and grateful to all those who had supported it. “The garden is a beautiful space for people to remember loved ones and reflect on the past few years, which have affected so many," she said. I’m grateful to everyone involved who has made this happen. This is now a lovely place for people to reflect and remember those we’ve lost and I’m sure people will draw comfort from the garden.”

One of the benches in the garden is dedicated to Dacorum resident Betty Harris, and the family attended the event to pay tribute.

Mayor of Dacorum, Cllr John Birnie, Leader of the Council Cllr Andrew Williams, councillors and community members also attended the event. Rev Canon John Williams, from St Mary’s Church in Hemel Hempstead, blessed the tree.

Cllr Williams said: “COVID-19 impacted so many and felt it was important to create a memorial garden in remembrance of those who were affected. The garden is a quiet community space for people to reflect and remember and a wonderful new addition to Gadebridge Park.”