The formal opening of the Edinburgh Forget-Me-Not Garden, situated next to the gatehouse/lodge in the grounds of Lauriston Castle, took place earlier today (Monday 26 September).
Representatives of the dementia community were invited to attend, and there were speeches from the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, Henry Simmons (Chief Executive of Alzheimer Scotland) and Alex Cole-Hamilton, the local MSP.
The speakers were introduced by Jamie Edgar, Chairman of Edinburgh Forget-Me-Not Garden Trust.
The Lord Provost was also tasked with planting a tree in the memory garden.
The memory garden, designed by Alyn Smith, is situated next to the gatehouse/lodge of Lauriston Castle. Not only does the garden contain a variety of plants and shrubs, but it also features fixtures that stimulate the memory of those whose powers of recollection are becoming blurred.
It provides a balanced mix of relaxation and interest.
Being in the grounds of Lauriston Castle, there are also beautiful walks and views to enjoy.
The Edinburgh Forget-Me-Not-Garden Trust was formed in 2015 with the objective of turning the dilapidated lodge and unkempt garden into a hub where help could be sought from volunteer advisors and a tranquil garden could be enjoyed all the year round. The Trust signed a 25-year lease from the City Council in 2019 for the lodge and adjacent garden grounds.
With no additional financial support from the Council, the task began to raise the necessary funds to convert the lodge and garden into the vision imagined.
