Hospice to Receive Chelsea Flower Show Garden

A garden from the Chelsea Flower Show is set to be given to a hospice. Hospice UK and designer Tom Hoblyn will donate a garden, created for the 2025 event, to St Cuthbert’s Hospice in Durham. This initiative aims to highlight the “important role” such environments play in end-of-life care. The Mediterranean-inspired design will be relocated to Durham after the show concludes. Jeff McWaters, a resident at St Cuthbert’s living with Huntington’s Disease, described the news as “fantastic,” stating that being in the garden helps him take his “mind off things.” While the initial concept for the garden draws inspiration from Mallorca, Mr. Hoblyn has conducted research on the Durham region and intends to incorporate design elements influenced by the River Wear and Cuthbert’s Moor in the North Pennines. Durham’s climate was also a consideration when selecting the materials and plants. John Eggleston, a volunteer gardener at the facility, expressed his conviction that the garden is “going to mean so much to people here.” Mr. Eggleston, who has been associated with St Cuthbert’s for the past 13 years, remarked: “We’re all absolutely over the moon and it’s going to be a real pleasure to help maintain this special garden.” The space will be designed to be accessible for both wheelchairs and hospice beds. Mr. Hoblyn commented: “What is beautiful is also hugely beneficial for a patient’s mind, body and spirit, and of course for their family and friends as they tackle life’s most difficult journey.” Readers can follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story ideas can be sent to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. This article is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.