PHOTOGRAPH: Margaret and Mick, regular visitors to the park enjoying the ’Rotary East Thurrock’ funded bench.
Friends of Hardie Park in Stanford-le-hope, recently approached Rotary East Thurrock following their community offer of local funding for small, sustainable projects with long term impact on the area or residents. Hardie Park trustees looked at purchasing a number of new colourful, 100% recycled plastic benches recently to allow our customers to spend more time in the park. With this vision in mind, they applied for Rotary’s support to help towards the cost of a wheelchair accessible bench, enhancing provision alongside other newly purchased seating.
Chris Meads, Trustee of Hardie Park said, ‘We are delighted to have been awarded the funds to deliver on our vision of ‘benches for all’. The wheelchair accessible bench brings the colourful outdoor seating capacity to 48. Mindful of on-going covid restrictions the importance of offering a safe, well-spaced seating area for visitors has been paramount. The benches are a huge asset to the park and we thank the Rotary Club for their kind contribution. The new seating allows everyone the opportunity to enjoy their time at Hardie Park. In July we are looking forward to a special presentation event hosted by Rotary East Thurrock alongside many other worthy causes in East Thurrock to receive the donation on behalf of Friends of Hardie Park.’
The Hardie Park takeout is open 12-3 daily in the park. From the 17th May arrangements will be in place to re-open the cafe building with indoor seating and toilets for customers.
Contact details: Hardie Park Cafe, Hardie Road, Stanford-le-Hope, Essex SS17 0PB Phone: 07935 868835
Email: info@friendsofhardiepark.co.uk Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LoveHardiePark
Facebook:www.facebook.com/LoveHardiePark