New water aeration fountains are due to be installed at the Botanic Gardens in Churchtown in Southport, to make the water cleaner and the park safer for visitors.
The funding for the new fountains has been provided thanks to a campaign led by the Make A Change For Botanic group, whose members have been working closely with the Botanic Gardens Community Association.
Make A Change For Botanic was launched by David Rawsthorne on 23rd March 2021, and has already raised around £28,000 to enable safety work to take place, which will include the new water aeration fountains in the lake.
David Rawsthorne said: “I have just received the fantastic news that the fountains will be getting installed on the Botanic Gardens Lake imminently.
“I am super excited to see them in place as a lasting tribute to my old China Ben Smith-Crallan.
“This marks the start of the complete overhaul of the park in the upcoming years when heritage funding is acquired.
“Within a couple of weeks of the fountains being installed we should slowly start to see the water becoming clearer.
“Fingers crossed they have a good and lasting effect on the water quality until such a time as we can get a complete lake dredge if so required.
“I’m so proud of how our community has come together on this and given me so much support and backing, thanks to everybody.
“We really are making a change for Botanic.”
The Make A Change For Botanic was founded by David Rawsthorne after the tragic death of his best friend, Ben Smith-Crallan, who lost his life days after accidentally falling into the lake at the park. He was just 37 years old.
The Make A Change For Botanic group has enjoyed huge support over the past year with around four and a half thousand people joining their group on Facebook.
The team works very closely with the volunteers from the Botanic Gardens Community Association, which has been playing a leading role in maintaining the historic park over the past ten years.
The Grade II Listed Botanic Gardens first opened to visitors in 1874 and has been enjoyed by millions of people since.
Next up in their calendar for the campaigners is a Botanic Gardens Family Fun Day, which takes place at the park on Sunday, 19th June, between 10am and 4pm. The is sponsored by Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery.
Visitors can celebrate the grand unveiling of the brand new Botanic Gardens mural at the park, created by local artist Robert Newbiggin.
They can also enjoy a variety of attractions, including: art lessons; art gallery; crafts; music from The Wigan Youth Brass Band; animal visits; a petting area; children’s activities; rides; refreshments; music; and much more besides.
A number of stalls will also be present, with local people or businesses interested encouraged to get in touch while there are some still available. All stall holders will need to contact Jess Thwaites please, preferably via Messenger or Facebook until nearer the time. Alternatively call 07894497672.
Jess said: “If you think you’d like to come along to what is set to be a magical event with plenty to offer the entire family and promote your local small business we cannot wait to hear from you.”
- Would you like to help the campaign to improve the Botanic Gardens in Churchtown in Southport? Please join the Make A Change For Botanic Facebook group here.
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