Whitchurch Library Project

CentenaryGarden Project

 This is to record the Club's project to celebrate the Centenary of Rotary in 2005. 

Our aim was to create a garden in the grounds of the local public library in Whitchurch for the benefit of residents. The project was conceived and managed by the Rotary Club, with the full cooperation of the Parks Department of Cardiff Council. Many local businesses, organisations and individuals supported the project financially. The tiles laid in the path were made by students from a pottery for the disabled. Pupils from the local High School assisted with the planting. The garden contained seats for the use of residents, and was planted with "Heart of Gold", the rose bred to celebrate the Centennial.

Cardiff Council was an enthusiastic partner, as we are also celebrating Cardiff's 100 years as a city and 50 years as the capital city of Wales, and the "Cardiff in Bloom" project will be of particular significance this year.

I hope the pictures tell the rest of the story.

The ground before work started. The path leads from the shops to the library.

22nd December 2004, the day work started. President Heather Guy of RC Cardiff Breakfast digs the first sod in the company of club members, staff of Cardiff Parks and Councillor Sophie Howe representing the community.

5th February 2005. Club members planting the roses.

President Heather welcoming guests to the opening.

Councillor Nigel Howells, Cardiff Council Executive Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure cuts the tape to open the garden.

Rotary GB&I PP David Liddiatt, Chairman of Rotary GB&I's Centennial Committee (on the left) and DG District 1150 Michael Rye uncover the plaque.

The tiled panels recording the sponsors and Rotary's involvement.

The plaque

The finished garden.

In conclusion, I would like to say that the Club as a whole was involved with the project at all stages. However, two members in particular, Tony Edwards and Michael Sant must be mentioned by name as they worked very hard to bring the initial concept through to a fine conclusion. President Heather Guy should be mentioned too as she was so instrumental in bringing about the vital local sponsorship.

Chris Moseley