“We are very lucky. This lovely Georgian square dates from the 1830s. In those days only local residents had a key to the square gardens, whereas today the gates are open during the day for all.”
The Square is cared for entirely by volunteers and relies on events, such as the Summer party, to finance upkeep and improvements. Mr Fitt thanks all the volunteers, including those who open and close the gates. He points out a number of wonderful plants in the garden, including a stinking hellebore which is said to smell like roast beef, an ‘amazing’ 30-year-old Persian Ironwood, and the Butcher’s Broom plant, used by bygone butchers to scrape their blocks. The lawn is also home to a colony of mining bees. The garden has a fascinating history. Before the area’s housing was built, the land now occupied by Vernon Square was a base for medieval ropemakers. The party will include a raffle and wine, Prosecco, Pimm’s, tea and coffee. Entrance is £2 but members are free. Further details to be found at www.vernonsquare.org.
