On Sunday the 27th September 2015 the garden saw another milestone day as a celebration seat was donated to the garden in memory of Rory Minns, a fellow gardener and enthusiast for the community garden. Sadly last year his young life ended and the village mourned for a life cut short at the age of 25. This young man was amongst other things, a poet, horticulturist, and environmentalist but sadly chased by his own demons. Rosemary’s obituary to him was posted here: https://tangmerecommunitygarden.wordpress.com.
His family wanted to donate a seat to the garden in memory of him and a collection point for donations was set up in the local shop as well as the Community garden. This is no ordinary seat though, not your run of the mill garden bench, as befits Rory the seat is as individual and multi-faceted as Rory himself. Made out of a solid piece of oak and sculpted only with a chain saw by another very talented young man called Simon Groves who lives and works in Warningcamp. This is a work of art. The seat is in the shape of a sofa and carved around it are things relating to Rory as his mum explained. Morning glory flowers, bee orchids, a garden fork and Rory’s tag in fabulous flamboyance is on the back.
The day of the unveiling took place on the anniversary of Rory’s birthday and was a beautiful one with the sun shining down on us as we celebrated with our Autumn open day. A table was groaning under a huge selection of cakes and dainties. The tombola was non-stop and a good crowd made up mostly of Rory’s family and friends attended. It was a great success and we now have a beautiful seat to rest and ponder upon. May you rest in the peace of the garden Rory.
Tangmere Community Garden 