Rotarians in Northallerton were joined by their MP to help provide a magical Christmas experience for families in need of a boost.
Rishi Sunak, MP for Richmond (Yorks), helped served refreshments to visitors to the Northallerton Secret Garden which had been turned into a festive wonderland for families who have been denied the normal Christmas experience because of Covid-19 restrictions.
Mr Sunak, who is an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Northallerton Mowbray, was part of the Rotary team which served non-alcoholic mulled wine, mince pies and Christmas cake to families who came to see the Christmas story recreated in a series of tableaux in the garden just off Northallerton High Street.
The Secret Garden is a project set up by the United Reformed Church to provide an oasis of green calm in the heart of the county town.
The garden custodians wanted to create some Christmas magic for families in need or those suffering from loneliness or mental health issues. Over three nights more than 20 groups enjoyed tours of the garden which were booked for specific time slots to ensure social distancing.
Covid 19 restrictions meant NHS trace and trace check-in protocols being observed by all visitors and helpers.
Mr Sunak praised the response of the Secret Garden team to the unique circumstances of Christmas 2020. “This was a great initiative to bring some Christmas comfort and joy to those most in need of it,” he said.
“The displays around the garden were brilliantly creative in telling the Christmas story.”
Rotarian Sue Bush said the club had been pleased to make a contribution to the smooth running of the Secret Garden’s event.
“And we were delighted that our honorary member, Mr Sunak, could join us in supporting the organisers and the families who I know were very grateful for the experience.”
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