We were extremely privileged to welcome onto the garden HRH the Princess Royal who took a keen interest in the narrative and planting styles. The garden also welcomed personalities including the Chef Rachel Allen and helped to raise over £1,500 for charity.
The RAF Benevolent Fund was an obvious choice as a charity for Martyn. He retired from the RAF after serving for eight and a half years, both in Germany and during the Gulf War, as a Senior Aircraftsman. The Journey in support of the RAF Benevolent Fund’ is a garden based on a field of war. Martyn’s concept focused on creating a juxtaposition of two themes – reflection and conflict.
An ambitious and deliberately thought provoking space, delivered a bold and yet moving visual statement demonstrated the beauty that can be found in the most hostile of surroundings and habitats. A strong military theme ran throughout the design incorporating reds and whites that represent the blood and bandages of a wartime field hospital. The use of white also aims brought the theme of peace to the garden.