Meeting on future of Margate's "secret garden"

A meeting is being held on Wednesday, March 24, to discuss the future of The Countess of Huntington’s Zion Chapel burial ground, dubbed “Margate’s secret garden”.

The Addington Square graveyard and chapel were built to serve the congregation of the Countess of Huntingdon’s Connexion.

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The Countess was a keen follower of George Whitfield and the Wesley brothers.

The site has remained hidden and through neglect, become a secret garden and haven for wildlife despite suffering from repeated vandalism.

Some notable occupants of the burial ground are: Thomas Gardner, Queen Victoria’s bodyguard; The famous Cobb family memorial; and with Francis William Cobb: Stephen Wells who laid claim to have constructed the Shell Grotto.

Louise Oldfield, chairman of The Margate Conservation Area Advisory Group said: “The garden is a magical place. I couldn’t believe it when I stumbled across it. It’s really great there is revived interest in the garden through local and family history, bio-diversity and nature trails. I hope that people will come along and find out more and get involved.”

The meeting takes place at Holy Trinity and St John’s school, St John’s Road.

There will be a brief storytelling session as introduction from The Tom Theatre in Cliftonville.