Over the past weeks, it has become clear from enquiries by the public passing through the Glen who stop to chat with members of the FOGG working party that there is growing interest in its benches – and a willingness to take on a memorial bench.
As one FOGG volunteer recently commented:
“Interesting that people are keen to fund new seats in the Goyle. EDDC’s website still says all places allocated, which is of course not strictly true. There is an empty concrete base above the new fern area. The seating in the Goyle is very popular and often occupied.”
Back in the early days of the FOGG project, the benches along the Glen were given an audit and it was felt by all concerned – the council, the working party volunteers, the visitors – that the Glen could do with more.
And so a year later, all concerned were busy installing new benches – which now means that there are memorial benches available along the Glen.
Not only that, but further bench spots are being planned, with the process of choosing a site for a new memorial bench almost complete.
Should anybody be interested in sponsoring a memorial bench in Glen Goyle, they can apply to the council to make a request, which is very straightforward at the page: Donate a memorial bench and plaque – East Devon
The council should also be able to provide the same style of bench as those which have been recently installed. Here’s the first of those in its new home:
…
The FOGG working party and the Vision Group for Sidmouth’s design champion came up with the Wirksworth Seat from 100% recycled plastic by the company TDP:
“A modern twist on a traditional bench. The Wirksworth Seat has clean lines, looks stunning in any location and comes in a great choice of colours… The Wirksworth Seat, being made from UK recycled plastic waste, is a sustainable alternative to timber benches. This stylish outdoor bench works in any location. It looks good in traditional brown or black.”
And the council also thought that recycled materials with a smart, traditional look were just the right thing for these Victorian gardens.
These have now been made available ‘for adoption’ as memorial benches – so do get in touch to secure one!
…