Friends of Preston Park (FoPP) joined in with the festivities to celebrate the reopening of Preston Manor to the general public after a closure of 5 years. Whilst the house was open to for paid viewing, local councillors and Siân Berry MP for Brighton Pavilion, were invited to a special reception and guided tour. This included an exceptional display of an eighteenth-century clock that was stolen from the manor in 2001, but was discovered last year at an auction and returned to the manor. As part of the display the clock was wound up and painted sailing ships could be seen sailing across the front of the clock as it chimed. If you haven’t yet been to the manor house, it really is the time now for a visit.
Outside in the grounds was just as magical. There were many gazebos set up to deliver free fun activities for the many children who came along with their parents. There really were toddlers toddling everywhere! Old fashioned games were being played across the lawn as well as crafts, hunt the easter egg and much more! Staff were dressed in Edwardian costume and there was live but subtle music played. Café Rust has now opened a new café in the manor, and it must be doing something right as it sold out of food! A new staircase at the back of the manor has been built so that customers can access the café from the back of the manor.
Over in the FoPP tent, we were entertaining with a mix of colouring a fun fact booklet, potting a sunflower seedling and a small array of plants for sale. We were of course also trying to get some new members onboard as well some new gardening volunteers. Anyone interested should contact us via the website.
Additionally, we too have a few entertaining events on in the park this year. Please access these through the website where you will also be able to sign up to attend