This one’s for you Bill!
Kent Wildlife Trust dedicate Maidstone in Bloom triumph to long-serving volunteer who sadly lost his battle with cancer before the winners were revealed
Staff at Kent Wildlife Trust have dedicated a win at the Maidstone in Bloom competition to a long-serving volunteer who dedicated decades to creating a wild garden at their Nature Park at Tyland Barn.
Bill Hickmott began volunteering with the conservation charity in 1997, where he shared his love of nature-friendly gardening with staff and fellow volunteers at Tyland Barn and Sevenoaks. For the last few years, Bill has spent much of his time at Tyland Barn helping to manage the site, which features a pond dipping platform, nature trails, wildflower meadows, and a wooded area. His tireless efforts and those of his fellow volunteers in creating the nature haven have created a legacy for many to enjoy for future generations.
Throughout the year, Tyland Barn Nature Park is enjoyed by the local community, including hundreds of children who take part in holiday clubs, nature tots, forest school, and learning workshops for home-educated young people. It is also used for wellness activities, study days, and nature surveys.
The team at Kent Wildlife Trust were delighted to be invited as finalists to the Maidstone in Bloom ceremony held at Coolings Garden Centre in Sevenoaks on Wednesday 18th September. They were elated to be named as winners in the commercial garden category.
Speaking after the event Nature Parks and Gardens Development Officer Joanne Bradley said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have won this award and it is testament to the hard work and dedication of the wonderful volunteers who spend hours tending to and managing the stunning Nature Park at Tyland Barn.
“Bill made such a huge contribution to creating a wilder Kent and I know he would have been so proud of this achievement. Myself and the whole team would like to dedicate this award to Bill who has left such a mark on us all and will always be remembered with fondness. Thank you Bill, and all of the Kent Wildlife Trust volunteers, we simply couldn't do it without you!”
Tyland Barn Nature Park is a wildlife haven and was designed to be a little Kent, showcasing the various habitats that can be found across the county. When in season spectacular orchids, stag beetles, dragonflies, butterflies and slow worms can be spotted across the site. It also includes wheelchair and buggy-accessible paths.
Be like Bill?
If you would like to “be like Bill” and volunteer your time to create a wilder Kent, then visit Kent Wildlife Trust’s website for more information.