The name All Mead Garden has special significance as two local young people, Fatih Katirci and Emanuella Akyiaa Ounsu, thought it up during a Name the Garden Competition. Formerly called Egbert Garden, because of its proximity to Egbert House, the new name was chosen because of its inclusivity. “All Mead Garden is a fantastic new name, it shows that everyone is welcome, regardless of where they live on the estate, how old they are – there really is something for everyone here” said Alan Rossiter of Free Form.

The garden has a nautical and Viking theme, based on the historical presence of Vikings in the area. At past events Vikings from the Viking Society have delighted young and old with weapons displays and heritage talks. Free Form Arts Trust have run workshops with local residents to contribute to the design and decoration of the garden. These designs, along with renaming the garden, give residents ownership of the new space.

All Mead Garden has been part of Free Form’s Safer Spaces Programme, sponsored by the Housing Corporation and Provident Financial. Safer Spaces provides creative solutions for community safety. The site had been blighted by vandalism, by enlisting the help of young people, and encouraging them to participate in and be proud of their garden, it is anticipated that there will be a reduction in vandalism in the area.

Nigel Poole, Chief Executive of Housing Operations for Shaftesbury Housing Group, of which Kingsmead is a part, will officially open the Garden and Terry Jervis will present awards to the two young people who re-named the garden.

Terry Jervis, who owns and runs Jervis Entertainment Media, grew up on the Kingsmead Estate, but has since gone on to become an extremely successful television, music, and publication producer and director. He is excited to return to Kingsmead under such happy circumstances, and will inspire current residents to reach for their dreams and achieve success in their future lives.

Further information and images will be released after the event. Should you have any questions please contact Alan Rossiter at Free Form Arts Trust on 0207-249-3394 before the event.