It was standing room only at a packed Ventnor Winter Gardens tonight, as concerned residents and mainlanders (over 300 people) attended a meeting to express their concerns about the future of the Ventnor Botanic Gardens.
During the hour long meeting, a stream of positive and sensible ideas were put forward by members of the public (fuller report to follow tomorrow).
After the meeting had concluded, we caught up with Philip Le May, Chairman of the Friends of the Botanic Garden.
Friends play an important role
Philip explained the background of the Friends and the contribution they have made to the Garden over the past 21 years.
As well as the extensive fund-raising efforts, the Friends have contributed over 1.5 million man hours over the last 21 years in helping to keep the Garden going.
It was very clear at tonight’s meeting that the Friends intend to do what they can to ensure that the Garden remains a public amenity for residents and Islanders, as Philip explained in that this was the first of many public meetings.
More to come tomorrow, but in the meantime, hear what Philip had to say.
