Thanks to Tanja for this report from Sunday’s second anniversary event at the former Frank James hospital and for sharing the great news about the Micklethwaite connection. Ed
The Frank James Gathering on Sunday 2nd March was a great event! Despite the weather, more than 60 people turned up to look around the site and see the sad state of this grade II Listed building.
The Friends of Frank James were particularly pleased that our Council Leader, Ian Stephens, made the effort to come and see the building and grounds. It is good to see that our new Council is taking the future of this iconic building seriously.
Other visitors included Andrew Turner and Carole Dennett – who have been loyal to the cause from start – as well as Green Party Leader and Councillor Bob Keats.
New trees planted
The Friends were also glad to welcome members of the Isle of Wight Orchard Society who came to plant an apple tree and three walnut trees!
Refreshments were served and to top it all up FatSamba marched into the compound to celebrate the Friends’ second year anniversary of tending to the grounds.
There were also many visitors who had not been to any of the gatherings before, but who had fond memories of a much loved Cottage Hospital. They were incensed to see its current deterioration.
A Micklethwaite connection
The good news is that it is not too late! It is truly wonderful to see how many people care for this building and want to take part in helping to secure its future.
What’s more, now that it has been confirmed that the Frank James Memorial Hospital is a true Micklethwaite Building, the realisation is creeping in what a true treasure this Island is sitting on.
However, with this comes responsibility: The Friends of Frank James sincerely hope that owners and Council now fully realise the great potential of this unique building and ask them to together make Frank James flourish again.
Thanks to Josh Atkin for the photos from the anniversary gathering, as well as the drawing of Frank James Hospital showing the JT Micklethwaite connection.
Click on photos to see larger versions
Image: © Josh Atkin
