A historic memorial garden which has fallen into disrepair and become overgrown is to be brought back to life by a team of volunteers in Woodstock.

The group of local residents have been digging, cutting back and clearing since January in an effort to restore The Hensington House Memorial Garden in Hensington Road. 

The clearing of old and diseased trees and plants will make way for new landscaping and planting. 

The team of volunteers - led by former Woodstock mayor John Banbury -  say they aim to restore the garden to its former glory. 

The garden marks the site of the former Hensington House Chapel, part of Woodstock's old Victorian workhouse.

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The workhouse was demolished in 1969 and the chapel in 1971, although the ground remains consecrated.

A JCB digger - loaned to the volunteers by Brandon Hire Station in Kidlington - has been assisting the team in their efforts.

Mr Banbury, who is also a chapel trustee, said: "The memorial garden is a key part of Woodstock's heritage and it was a great shame to see it so overgrown in recent years.

"We are working hard to make sure we create something that will be enjoyed by all generations today and in the future - restoring the wonderful garden to a place of quiet contemplation, a fitting memorial to the old chapel for years to come."

Anyone interested in supporting the project should contact Mr Banbury on johnnbanbury@yahoo.com

 

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