A SPECIALLY created bench has been unveiled in Embrook – it features a life-size stag carved into the trunk of a former oak tree.
Last Thursday, residents, councillors and representatives from Bovis Homes gathered in Old Forest Meadows to celebrate the launch of the new attraction. And while the views surrounding it might not be complete, next year there will be a blooming display of wild flowers for the public and bees to enjoy.
The bench was funded by housebuilder Bovis Homes in partnership with Wokingham Borough Council as part of their support for the Matthewsgreen Farm development.
Created by Nick Speakman of 3DWood UK, it will form an important feature of the nature park (known as Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace).
Ideally located to take advantage of the best views across the nature park, the bench is the result of a partnership project between Bovis Homes, Emmbrook Residents’ Association and Wokingham Borough Council.
Caroline Green, planning and design manager for Bovis Homes’ Southern Counties region, commented: “It’s great to see the bench in this setting. It’s a lovely piece of artwork which we hope our residents and the surrounding Emmbrook community will be able to enjoy when they are using the new SANG for many years to come.”
Paul Gallagher, Chairman of the Emmbrook Residents’ Association, added: “We had the idea for the bench when the oak from which it is carved was felled, and it’s great to now see it in place.
“The process has been a great example of Bovis Homes and council officers working closely with us, as resident representatives, and working with ward members Cllr Rachelle Shepherd-DuBey and Cllr UllaKarin Clark to install the sculpture.
“All involved can clearly see the importance of this as a community asset.”