Mountbatten Isle of Wight’s Oak Garden has been transformed thanks to charitable funding and the efforts of local landscaping specialists, breathing new life into the peaceful space.
Mountbatten Isle of Wight’s Oak Garden is blooming once again thanks to support from the Ventnor Friends of Wight Horticulture and the work of Isle of Wight-based C.A.R. Gardens.
The courtyard garden was originally created by respected horticulturalist Simon Goodenough during his time as curator of Ventnor Botanic Garden for the benefit of patients staying on Mountbatten’s inpatient unit.
Simon, who founded the Ventnor Friends of Wight Horticulture, died in 2025 while in Mountbatten’s care. Funding from the charity – its first major project since widening its charitable aims – has now enabled the space to be revitalised.
The work was carried out by C.A.R. Gardens to a design created by office manager and noted Island horticulturalist Rob Mew.
The project held special significance for Rob, whose wife Tracey received care from Mountbatten in 2025 in a room overlooking the Oak Garden. Inspired by their experience and preserving Simon’s original vision, the redesign provides colour and seasonal interest while retaining a much-loved yellow rose that held special memories for the couple.
The Friends group has also planted a tree in Simon’s memory, chosen with advice from his wife Debs and reflecting his expertise in New Zealand flora. The tree was donated by Burncoose Nurseries.
Mountbatten says its gardens are open for everyone to enjoy, including visitors using the hospice café.
“It was a huge pleasure being part of this collaborative project. Having had personal experience of Mountbatten Isle of Wight, I was able to fully understand the importance of the outdoor space and how the Oak Garden is so massively valued by relatives, friends, staff and, most importantly, the people Mountbatten is caring for on its ward.
“It was a privilege to be involved with the garden revamp – part of Simon’s legacy – and give back for the amazing care provided by all at Mountbatten Isle of Wight.
“C.A.R. Gardens will be back to continue developing this project. Bulbs will be planted in the autumn, ready for spring’s displays of tulips and daffodils.”
said Rob Mew of C.A.R. Gardens.
“The development of the bank in the Oak Garden was a perfect project for our charity, now we can support wellbeing schemes across the Island. We think Simon would have been delighted and we are excited to see how it develops.”
said Ventnor Friends of Wight Horticulture chairman Valerie Pitts.
Earlier this year, the C.A.R. Gardens team also took part in Walk the Wight in aid of Mountbatten Isle of Wight, raising more than £3,000 for the charity.
