FIRST MEMBERS’ MEETING  APRIL 9th 2009  PLANTS IN THE PARKS

 

At the first meeting of the Friends of Clarence Holmfield and Thornes Parks on April 9th at the Holmfield Arms some 40 members heard Steve Brears, from Wakefield Council, talk about his many years’ experience of working in the Parks and his hopes for the future.

 

He recalled the days when there were 15 staff working to produce tens of thousands of plants from cuttings and seeds to be used all over Wakefield. Although the formal gardens have now been set out with bedding plants, there is still much to be done to restore the Parks, especially the Rose Garden, to their former glory. Steve’s role as an experienced and qualified horticultural expert was now to train others. The training includes practical work and this gives Steve the opportunity to improve several aspects of the Parks.

 

Steve also described the project helping people with disabilities to benefit from working with plants.

 

Members then discussed several issues arising from Steve’s talk and put forward ideas and proposals which will be included in the first part of an overall plan for the future of the Parks.

 

The next meeting, on June 11th, will consider the Buildings in the Parks, including the Aviary.