Saturday July 18th dawned bright and the sun shone all day! The good people of Ipswich arrived in force and nobody could have judged the day anything but a huge success. We launched our new book Holywells, Home of the Cobbolds with author Clive Hodges signing and dedicating copies. The paper-cutting demonstration by mother and daughter team, Erika and Lois Cordelia was as popular as ever and the Elizabeth Cobbold paper-cut Valentines were much appreciated under the skilled guidance of Erica Burrows, Chairman of the Friends of Ipswich Museum.
The Trust would like to thank most warmly all its helpers, family and friends who came along in support of the event and particularly those who purchased books. The Trust knows it only survives through your support and wishes you to know that it is hugely appreciated.
What may not be so well known is that the Trust has played a small but worthwhile role from the start of the restoration project. In the early days we wrote in support of the funding application; we have encouraged the team on the ground throughout by answering questions and providing photographs and we were instrumental in providing very high quality interpretation boards.
As a result your Keeper was invited to speak at the opening ceremony following The Mayor, The Chair of the East of England HLF and the Chair of The Friends of Holywells Park. For the benefit of those not present here is a synopsis of what he said.
He opened by reminding his audience that Holywells – Bring the Magic Back had been the title chosen by Adrian Howlett for his dissertation way back in 2004. Was that a question, a command or perhaps a plea he asked. It doesn’t matter now! The magic is back! He went on to thank all those who had made it happen, from the most senior executive to the most reluctant volunteer. He also remembered to thank Lord Woodbridge whose gift it was back in the 1930s. Sadly, he continued, two things could not be brought back: the house and the family. To fill that gap the Trust was launching, that very day, a book Holywells, Home of the Cobbolds by Clive Hodges, the first full, historically accurate account of this magical place and its people. As such the book would appeal to every lover of the park. If as I close, he said, you feel moved to clap, don’t applaud me – applaud the team that brought the magic back!
Since restoration Holywells Park has Heritage, Tree and Wild Life Trails some equipped with an Aurasma facility. Well worth a visit!
