Garden of love for tragic Nell
HANDCRAFTED messages of love, friendship and happiness run through a garden of memories created as a lasting tribute to teenager Nell Jones.
The 14-year-old was one of 22 people to tragically lose her life in the Manchester Arena attack almost a year ago.
Following her death, her friends, classmates and teachers at Holmes Chapel High School set to work to design and build a community space in her name.
The Garden of Memories was officially opened at the school on Wednesday and attended by Nell’s family and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
One of its main features is a stream of pebbles, each painted with a heartfelt and touching tribute to Nell. They feature messages and memories, lyrics from Nell’s favourite Ariana Grande song ‘Moonlight,’ as well as hearts, and the iconic Manchester bee.
Nell’s brother Sam addressed crowds at the opening of the garden. He said: “People paying this much attention to Nell would astound her, she would be overjoyed. These last 12 months have been incredibly difficult but being able to come and see this tangible piece of affection has really helped to carry us through.”
The garden is split into different sections and sits outside the school’s security perimeter so it can be used by the wider community as a place to sit and reflect.
Another feature is the sensory trail, a path running through part of the garden which focuses on sound, smell and texture. It was designed for pupils and others with special educational needs.
Holmes Chapel High School executive headteacher Denis Oliver described the garden as ‘inspired by Nell’ but ‘for everyone.’ He added that there were a few features that were yet to be completed, but told crowds ‘it looks splendid.’
Mr Oliver said: “I would like to thank the thousands of people who had donated money, time and resources to help create this garden. This is a garden that was inspired by the loving memory of Nell Jones, but it truly is a garden for everyone.”
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham added: “This garden is living proof that good things can come out of terrible events.