Nathan's Garden

23rd June 2016
On Thursday 23rd June 2016 we had the pleasure of being able to re-open our newly renovated Nathan's Garden following our build work.

This garden was founded in 2000 following the death of a pupil at the school, Nathan Appleby...

Nathan was a pupil at Russell joining Reception Class in 1996 through to July 2000 when he left due to move onto Middle School.

In 1992, at 18 months old, Nathan was diagnosed with a Brain Tumour. He spent the following 8 years of his life battling against the illness. When he died in September 2000 the staff, parents and friends of Russell created the garden as a memorial that would benefit all of the children.

Last year...

During the school expansion the garden was made smaller and due to the year-long building work it was used as a base for the builders.

Marion and Lloyd Hynes very kindly offered their support in restoring the garden so it could once again be used by the children.

Over the last two terms we have been so lucky to have Lloyd and his team in to put up the new fence, repair the bridge and seating area and then Marion in to add planting and ‘the finishing touches’.  

And now we have what you see here today – a wonderfully tranquil part of the school where children have begun returning too. In fact, a few weeks ago we had a brass band playing in the garden while we celebrated the Queen’s 90th birthday. It was fabulous and so many parents and children commented on it.

This could not have been achieved without the support of you and the community funding we have received from:

Russell Fletcher             - The Albion

Paul McGovern               - President of Ampthill Lions

Ken & Katy Masters         - Second Hand Alley

Louise Hopgood             -   The Engine and Tender

Alucare Limited

GAMA MotorsT

he White Hart

Ampthill Freemasons

Janette Payne

We want to say a big thank you to all of them for their hard work and financial contributions.

It means that we can continue to enjoy this wonderful part of our school which stands as such a lovely memorial to celebrate Nathan’s life and to remind us how wonderful and precious childhood is.

Nathan's brother, Josh, was kind enough to officially 'open' the revamped garden in which staff and guests then enjoyed spending some time walking through and sharing old memories. 

 To everyone who was involved in making our garden what it is today we thank you on behalf of our past, present and future children who will enjoy it for many years to come.

 From all of us at Russell – thank you!