Friday 13th, often regarded as an unlucky day, was quite the opposite for all here at Scoil Bhride and the wider community in Fourmilehouse, as we celebrated the official opening of our brand new Sensory Garden.
After lunch we all congregated in the garden where we were joined by The Board of Management, members from the fundraising committee, some of our wonderful sponsors and of course our school parents.
Mr O’Donnell (Principal), Bernie Kearney (chairperson of BOM), and Tomas Beades from Leader (who financed 75% of the project) all addressed the large gathering. Mr O’Donnell acknowledged the contribution of Leader and also praised the efforts of the Fundraising Committee who put in a huge effort to raise the balance of the funding. The support of the Mid Roscommon Vintage Club, who organised a tractor run, was also acknowledged. There was a special mention for Bernie Kearney and Tommy Raftery who put in long hours over the summer in order to have the garden looking its best.
Before officially cutting the ribbon Bernie Kearney thanked everyone involved in the development of the garden and noted that it would be a great asset for the community. He gave special mention to all those who had sponsored the garden. Perhaps the loudest cheer of the day was reserved for Tomas Beades, from Leader, who suggested that the pupils deserved a night off homework to mark the opening of the new facility.
The pupils then sang a song specially composed by Mrs. Cusack to mark the wonderful occasion.
The garden looked resplendent, under an azure autumn sky, the last of the summer wildflowers providing a colourful backdrop to a bubbling water feature, vibrant benches and a giant story chair. With its blend of colours, textures, scents and soothing sounds it truly is a feast for the senses – A Sensory Garden to be proud of!
