Friends of Derby Arboretum to be honoured with King's Award for voluntary service
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On the morning of May 11, the Friends of Derby Arboretum will receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. Liz Fothergill, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for Derbyshire, will present a certificate and crystal award to members of the Friends group who have contributed to Loudon Lodge and the community garden.
Loudon Lodge, situated within the heritage area of Derby Arboretum, was once an end-of-terrace house on Morleston Street. After the rest of the terrace was demolished, it served as the Joseph Strutt Bowls Club until around 2010.
Left abandoned, the City Council-owned building was later leased to the Friends group, which refurbished it with the help of volunteers from The Rotary Club of Derby and funding from various sources. Now, Loudon Lodge stands as a warm and inviting community hub, equipped with modern facilities.
The former bowls green has been transformed into a vibrant community garden, thanks to the collaborative efforts of volunteers and the Friends group. This semi-formal garden offers year-round displays, including espalier fruit trees, raised beds with produce and a welcoming space for all.
To celebrate the occasion, the Friends of Derby Arboretum will host their annual May Fest at 1pm, following the morning's formalities. This free event invites everyone to join in a quintessentially British celebration of Spring.
Activities include: maypole dancing, music, juggling, face painting, arts and crafts, games, refreshments, plant stalls and educational exhibits from various organisations.
Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024
Time: 1 -4pm
Location: The Derby Arboretum
