A RELAXING communal space where everyone is made to feel welcome will be unveiled at the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park.
‘This Garden Isn’t Finished Without You’ is the first design sponsored by the Methodist Church.
The flowers and foliage are inspired by the diversity of people and includes bright, colourful and mixed planting.
The show opens on Wednesday, July 17 and runs until Sunday, July 21.
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The choice of materials is rich in symbolism.
Recycled colourful stone paving is a subtle nod to the colours of the rainbow and pride flags, celebrating people who identify as LGBTQIA+.
Cork walls wrap round the boundary to create a soft and textural sanctuary, with large fig trees providing shelter.
Plants such as achillea, salvia and erigeron, which are not native to the UK, shows how species from other cultures and nations can enrich a garden.
Designer Ollie Pike has ensured the garden is accessible for anyone with physical disabilities and incorporates a calm area for neurodivergent visitors.
Large woven willow sculptures in three distinct forms surround an open table where people can get to know each other.
Diversity and inclusivity are celebrated with a broad mix of plants chosen to represent the resilience of people from all over the world coming together to form a community.
The garden was created in collaboration with the local Alderley Edge and Knutsford circuit.
More than 40 volunteers from Knutsford Methodist Church have offered to staff the show.
Rev Alan Bradley, superintendent minister, said: “We have many keen gardeners within the church and many who want to share the good news of God’s love for everyone.
“The garden reflects one of our core values that God’s love embraces all. “I also love that in our care for the environment.
“We have decided that the garden will be relocated to nearby Mobberley Methodist Church, reducing its carbon footprint, and will become a wellbeing space for anyone to visit after the show.”
The garden illustrates some of the values important to the Methodist Church, particularly diversity, inclusion and caring for the earth.
The use of vibrant climate-resilient plants and net zero regenerative materials shows that there is a bright future for sustainable and mindful gardening.
Rev Helen Cameron, moderator of the Free Churches Group and president of Churches Together in England, will visit the garden.
She represented the Free Churches at the funeral of the Queen, reading prayers during the service.
She also took part in the Coronation of King Charles, blessing the newly crowned King alongside the Archbishops.
Rev Cameron has worked extensively with survivors of sexual abuse and co-wrote the study guide ‘Reflect and Respond’ with members of the Methodist Survivors Advisory Group.
Rev Cameron said: “We know that gardening and being outdoors contributes to our health and wellbeing.
“As a keen gardener, I am delighted that the Methodist Church is sponsoring a garden at the RHS Tatton Flower Show with such a welcoming and inclusive theme.”
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