Volunteers and local supporters recently came together to make this year’s Friends of Waterloo Seafront Gardens (FOWSG) Annual Autumn Fete a triumph, despite a very soggy start to the day.

Organisers were left drenched while setting up on the morning of Saturday 19th September, but the weather soon brightened up. Families from across the borough turned out in force to enjoy the festivities and show their support.

As well as traditional activities and stalls, visitors were treated to live music and afternoon tea in the gardens. Younger visitors enjoyed donkey rides, a miniature railway and there was also the opportunity for everyone to try their hand at the coconut shy!

Thanks to the generosity of all who attended, the event raised over £1,000. Every penny will go directly back into maintaining and improving the seafront gardens.

Thanks also go to local businesses Tony Almond, Magill’s Nursery, and Tesco for donating plants for the plant sale and prizes for the raffle. FOWSG are incredibly grateful for all the helpers who turned up to set up equipment, run the various stalls, and clear everything away at the end of the afternoon.

How to get involved this October

Work to restore and maintain the gardens continues this month, and new volunteers are always welcome to join in. No experience is needed – just bring enthusiasm and a willing pair of hands.

Upcoming volunteer sessions for October include: