Fifteen years ago, Valentines Mansion, Gardens and Park had not yet been restored, though plenty of local people had been working very hard since the 1990s towards the restoration. One such venture was the publication of this book, itself the inspiration behind the forthcoming Poetry Day at Valentines Mansion on Sunday 9th July 2023. Profits from the sale of the book when it was published in 2002, were divided between the Valentines Park Conservationists and the Friends of Valentines Mansion. You can read more about the Valentines Park Conservationists’ work here.
Among contributors to the book were local historians, authors, artists and musicians, who showed their love for Valentines and the influences that inspired them.
Now it is the turn of local primary schoolchildren … and YOU! A Schools Poetry Competition was launched earlier this year and the prizewinners, who all wrote poems inspired by Valentines Mansion, will be announced on July 9th at 3pm.
A full day for adults and children alike is planned by the Friends of Valentines Mansion. Free entry 10.30 – 4pm.
The free poetry workshop “WRITE IT” at 11.30 which lasts one hour is for children 6+ (accompanied by one adult). We hope this workshop will inspire children to write a short, nature-inspired poem to take home. (Arrive by 11.00 to register, after which any places not claimed will be re-issued on the door.)
The free nature-inspired poetry workshop “SAY IT” starts at 2pm and lasts one hour. It will be run by children’s author, Jane Ulysses Grell. Please arrive by 1.30 to register, after which any places not claimed will be re-issued. This session is geared towards both adults and children.
The theme is green, so try to leave the car at home (limited car parking available).
Why not bring a picnic and make a day of it? There will be lots of other poetry-themed activities throughout the day for everyone to enjoy! There will be music in the Walled Garden and children’s activities in the Victorian Kitchen.
Discover how some of the features of Valentines’ Historic Garden inspired poets such as Denise Levertov and Kathleen Raine.
If you are interested in supporting the work of the Friends of Valentines Mansion, to help preserve and develop the future of this wonderful place, why not subscribe as a member? This costs £8 a year. You will receive a regular newsletter and invitations to events and outings. New members and ideas are always welcome!
Diana Smith. June 2023
Friends Of Valentines Mansion 