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The garden is a tribute to the four brave men John Averis, Ian Reid, Ashley Stephens and Darren Yates Badley who tragically died in November 2007 and a fitting memorial to their lives. The garden in Seggs Lane, Alcester can now be enjoyed by family, friends and all members of the community. It is a place of great beauty and peace, the planting reflects the four seasons so the garden can be enjoyed year round.
Enter through the wonderful oak lych gate into the peace and tranquility of the Alceter Firefighters Memorial Garden. The greenoak came from the Ragley Estate, donated by the Marquis of Hertford and built by Broom Joinery, the colleagues of Ashley Stephens.
The four silverbirch trees represent the four men and are planted in the spring area, amongst hellebores and bulbs.
The garden was created with love, passion and attention to detail. No stone has been left unturned, the craftmanship is evident in the Oak Gazebo, where the names of the four Firefighters are carved. Local children decorated tiles with memories of the Firefighters and these are proudly displayed for all to see in the Gazebo.
The centre piece to the garden is a life size bronze helmet sculpture by Allan Scott.
Sitting under the pergola amongst the scented David Austen roses, lavender and clematis families and friends are able to reflect and enjoy the garden. The four oak benches are inscribed with personal messages and each family has a name plaque chosen from Honister Slate Mine.
A wildlife garden encourages bees, birds and butterflies, young children can enjoy finding special friends like Mrs Tiggywinkle, Peter Rabbit and Tom Kitten hidden amongst the planting.
The raised bed offers the chance for disabled gardeners to enjoy the garden, smelling the wonderful seasonal planting.
"I have been honoured and privileged to work with the families and friends of the
Firefighters to create this special place."
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