Gloria Hunniford opens new Sevenoaks garden
TV and radio presenter Gloria Hunniford cut the ribbon to open the newly-transformed garden at Sevenoaks Hospital on Friday.
The garden was transformed by two local businesses, with financial assistance from the hospital League of Friends and Sevenoaks Lions Club, in memory of Susan Hamilton-Rigby, who worked at the hospital for 28 years.
Provender Nurseries, an independent wholesale plant nursery, and Allium Designs by David Stead Landscapes came together to provide new planting and a patio with seating for patients, staff and visitors to enjoy.
Gemma Burgess, Senior Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Development Lead at Sevenoaks Urgent Treatment Centre (pictured right) said: “Susan adored being outside and we had the idea to commemorate her in a garden renovation. We would never have achieved this without the support and hard work of Richard and David’s teams and the generosity of the Sevenoaks Hospital League of Friends and the Sevenoaks Lions Club. We are so hugely grateful to them all.”
Gloria said: "I am a local resident and have used this hospital on many occasions and have always been impressed by it. This is such a wonderful project and what a fantastic way to remember your dear colleague, Susan. The garden looks amazing and I hope it's enjoyed by all for many years to come."
More than 50 people attended the garden opening, which included patients from the wards and their family as well as local residents who were treated to sandwiches, scones, doughnuts and a handmade garden cake baked by Gemma.
Richard McKenna, Managing Director at Provender Nurseries explained: “It’s been great to build a garden for the hospital which not only looks after people coming in and out with minor injuries, but can also help inpatients too. Gardens are so important for our mental health and wellbeing, so we’re delighted to have been able to do this and to give something back to the NHS.”
David Stead, Owner of Allium Designs, added: “As a local business established for more than 40 years, it was a pleasure to be involved in such a worthwhile cause. Our team worked hard to achieve the fantastic end result, which will be enjoyed by so many people in the months and years to come.”
