Tag Archives: abbey

Abbey Gardens scoops green flag award again

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Abbey Gardens in Abingdon has been judged one of the best parks in the
country after it was awarded Green Flag status for the third year in a
row.

The gardens, which are owned and maintained by the Vale of White Horse
District Council, first scooped the Green Flag Award in 2009 following a
five-year restoration project to transform the site to the way it looked
in its Victorian heyday.

The Green Flag is a national award that recognises parks that are well
maintained and managed with excellent facilities.

Cllr Reg Waite, cabinet member with responsibility for parks, said: “I
am delighted Abbey Gardens has once again received this national
accolade. Council staff and contractors work very hard to keep these
attractive grounds in great condition so they can be enjoyed by both
residents of the district and visitors. This award is something to be
exceedingly proud of.”

The Green Flag Award Scheme is managed by a consortium comprising Keep
Britain Tidy, BTCV and GreenSpace. Known collectively as the Green Flag
Plus Partnership, the consortium manages the scheme in England on behalf
of Communities and Local Government.

For more information see www.greenflagaward.org.uk

A 400m run to Chablis, France for Charity

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John Abbey and friends getting ready to set off!I, along with a few others, joined John Abbey of the Leathern Bottle this morning to wave him off on his fund raising run. John’s challenge is a tough one and will take 11 days to complete covering some 400 miles. The finishing line however will be well worth it for a few reasons. John’s challenge takes him from Goring (Berkshire) to the well known area of Chablis, Northern France. Hence when he finishes he will not only be staying on for a couple of days to recover but to sample some of the local grapes… This massive challenge has so far raised a staggering £11,500 for 3 charities; Helen & Douglas House, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice and Starlight Children’s Foundation. If you want to support this great challenge and cause there’s still time to donate. Simply visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/johnabbeytochablis

If you don’t know John or the Leathern Bottle (www.leathernebottel.co.uk) I strongly recommend you pay it a visit. Stunning food in a stunning location. It was taken on by Sir John Madejski a few years ago and is now a firm favourite of many. I know I’ll be going when John returns to see what he’s brought back…

Here is a video the start of this marathon run!

John Abbey setting off on his 400 mile run to Chablis, France (4MB)

Good luck!