Meeting on future of Margate's "secret garden"

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

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.