People and communities
Call for memories and mementoes of Walsall Arboretum
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As part of celebrations to mark Walsall Arboretum’s 150th anniversary, people are being encouraged to share their memories and mementoes of the much-loved park.
Walsall Arboretum first opened in 1874 and has served as a relaxing retreat for people from Walsall and the wider region ever since, playing host to many events and activities along the way, creating memories many will carry for a lifetime.
Back in February, Walsall Council highlighted the Arboretum with #WeLoveTheArbo which prompted many residents to share heart-warming and touching responses.
Inspired by the response, Walsall Council is calling for residents and visitors to share their photos, anecdotes and memories of the park to help celebrate the key milestone.
The memories will be showcased in the visitors' centre and shared on the council’s social media pages.
“ We’d love to hear people’s experiences and memories of the Arboretum and are looking forward to featuring them in our visitors' centre.
As well as recording personal reminiscences, we’re hopeful people will share with us their photographs and mementoes to bring the memories to life.
It’s an opportunity to celebrate one of the finest public parks in the Midlands that has brought many of us joy over the years. “
Submissions can be emailed to the Healthy Spaces team via healthyspaces@walsall.gov.uk or handed to the team at the Arboretum’s Visitor’s Centre.
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Notes to Editors
About Walsall Arboretum
Walsall Arboretum is a rural retreat at the heart of Walsall town centre. First opened in 1874, it now spans 170 acres and includes Hatherton lake, the country park and the extension.
The site attracts over a million visitors a year, with people of all ages enjoying events such as the annual bonfire and fireworks, funfairs, fun runs and activities such as: cricket, tennis, bowling, informal football, walking, cycling, and running. The Saturday parkrun attracts hundreds of people every week. In summer, the splash pad and children’s play area also attract thousands of visitors. With a trim trail, skatepark and multi-use games area there really is something for everyone. And, in amongst all this activity, there are spaces for quiet contemplation and opportunities to enjoy the vast array of plants and animals that inhabit the space.
The Arboretum will mark its 150th anniversary in 2024 with celebratory events throughout the year. Events will include a celebratory festival on the original date the park was opened, 4 May. www.go.walsall.gov.uk/parks-and-green-spaces/visit-our-parks-and-play-areas/walsall-arboretum
Find out more about Walsall's parks and green spaces here: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/parks-and-green-spaces
