Weymouth multi-faith peace garden set to open

A band of volunteers representing different faiths have been busy working on the plot, a former Quakers burial ground, for the last few months, boosted by donations from local businesses which have donated equipment.

They have transformed what was once an overgrown site next to the Nothe Tavern into a beautiful garden, working to a plan by local garden designer Michelle Brown.

It features planting areas, seats and a ‘labyrinth’ of paths.

The event at the weekend is billed as a Spring Open Day and will see the dedication of a peace pole in the garden. The World Peace Prayer is written on the pole in different languages.

All are welcome to the open day which will run from 12-4pm with the pole dedication ceremony taking place at 2pm.

Chairman of the project Chris Wilson said: “A local singing group, Bagatelle, and the choir from Holy Trinity School will be singing during the dedication of the pole.

“A cake is being made which will feed lots of people and representatives from different faiths will be planting trees.

“We invite people to come and join us in the garden. Children are especially welcome to come and plant something.

“The event is also an opportunity for people to see what we’ve done and ask questions about the garden and the history of the site.”

The first tree planted at the garden earlier this year was a white Japanese Flowering Cherry donated by the Friends of the Nothe Gardens.

Since then Chris Wilson said volunteers had been busy working at the site.

She said: “The support we have received has been fantastic – talk about restoring your faith in human nature.

“For example, the Eco company donated 250 square metres of turf, garden centres in Dorset have donated bulbs and Stone Firms have given us a good deal on some beautiful blocks for our stone seats.

“We still have some things to do like fitting our gates.

“If anyone can help us out there it would be really appreciated.”