The coronavirus pandemic has not been able to stop the launching of a community space at St Margaret’s Church in Edgware. Unable to have people attend the event, congregants, clergy and contractors logged in online to watch and hear Rev Sally Bailey give a guided tour of improvements made within the churchyard and grounds. 

Work has been undertaken in a range of areas that has improved access on the footpaths, provided additional seating, increased night lighting and seen the planting of new trees, hedges and plants that attract bees and other pollinators.

Matthew took part in the launch from the comfort of his computer screen, watching as Sally showed the introduction of hedges, flagstones, new lighting, a bug ‘hotel’, new fencing, a sundial and a British Legion ‘Tommy’, commemorating those who died in the First World War, including one person buried in the churchyard. This work has been funded by a range of organisations (pictured), including the Trees for Sacred Spaces campaign.

Matthew said: “In these difficult times, I am pleased that innovative uses of technology is enabling initiatives such as this to keep going. Recent weeks have shown that people value being outdoors and projects such as increasing wild flowers and plants in the suburbs brings a bit of the countryside into the city.

"Once we are through the current pandemic, this community space will provide residents, commuters and others with a place for quiet reflection in Edgware. I commend Sally and her team - including Hamad the cameraman (and also her husband), and Maureen for her technical support - for going ahead with this project while still adhering to the Government’s guidelines to 'Stay home, Protect the NHS, Save lives.”