Sun dial created in memory of Arthur
Last week a number of Magenta Living residents from North Birkenhead worked together to build a sun dial, fulfilling the wish of Arthur, who sadly passed away recently.
Arthur Whitehead who was an active member of the community, wanted to do something different with a patch of land or ‘pocket park’ in Solway Street, Birkenhead. He came up with the idea to install a sun dial then set about working with Magenta Living to see how to achieve it. Unfortunately Arthur passed away before he had chance to see the stunning sun dial, but the community rallied together to ensure his vision came to life.
Magenta Living used a community grant to fund the flags and installation, then Skills to Build – a social enterprise, stepped in to help. Skills to Build taught the volunteer residents how to level the ground, mix cement then lay and point the flags.
The sun dial will now serve as a memorial to Mr Whitehead. Adam Woodcock, Community Resource Coordinator at Magenta Living says: “This is a really fitting tribute to a man who gave a lot of his time to help improve his community. His gardening skills where admired by all, and the work he did at Bidston Rise Community House was invaluable. Skills to Build did a fantastic job teaching residents key skills to make this project happen, but more importantly it’s the residents who deserve full praise for creating a lovely focal point for all to enjoy.”
Magenta Living is currently working on a number of projects with Skills to Build. These include; helping Prenton’s Tenants and Residents Association create an outdoor space worthy of entering into the ‘RHS In Bloom’ awards, and working on a sensory garden at Happy Times Activity Centre in Moreton.