A LASTING memorial to a retired vet who enjoyed visiting Barnard Castle’s arts centre has taken root.
Firm friends Margaret Thomas and Steve England “enjoyed The Witham and all that it offered” . When Mr England passed away in 2018 aged 68, Ms Thomas decided she wanted to plant a tree in his memory in the centre’s rear garden. Her plans were put on hold as a result of Covid-19 and subsequent lockdowns, but last week, she planted a rowan, which was gifted by the Trees for Teesdale group. A plaque to Mr England’s memory will be fixed to the wall of the arts centre.
“Steve was a very good friend and this has been something I have wanted to do,” said Mrs Thomas.
“It is important to me that there is something for him that he would have appreciated. We both enjoyed The Witham and all that it offered.
“The variety of events on offer is immense. The Witham is a continuing and unfolding story.
“Now it has this beautiful garden for people to enjoy. To add another tree is environmentally good for the birds, bees and insects.” She added: “Steve would have been proud to have an ongoing association with The Witham.”
The Witham’s rear garden area was opened up to cafe customers when Covid restrictions were lifted last year and also hosted weekly busking sessions throughout the summer. Two decking stages were installed and plans are being put in place for a programme of outdoor performances throughout this summer. The cafe is currently open Wednesday to Saturday, but there are plans to extending opening hours to include Tuesdays from April 5.
