A CHANCE to learn more about the historic market gardening heritage project at an open day in Evesham is on offer.
Visitors will be able to discover the unsung stories, incredible feats and lasting legacy of market gardening in the Vale of Evesham by exploring three recently restored ‘hovel’ sites in Cleeve Prior and North Littleton during an event next Saturday (August 21)
The ‘hovels’ have been restored by the Market Gardening Heritage project, lead by Worcestershire Archive & Archaeology Service and partners, with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The open day will be the final, celebratory event for the Market Gardening Heritage Project which has been recording and celebrating this significant chapter of the ‘Vale’s’ history since 2018. Visitors will be able to see the restored hovels, hear from project volunteers, see an exhibition and read new interpretation boards.
With the help of volunteers, the MGH project team have researched the topic, recorded 15 interviews, surveyed hundreds of hovels (market gardeners sheds), and restored three hovels for people to see.
Nina O’Hare, project officer, said, “Market Gardening was an important part of the Vale of Evesham so it has been good to ensure it is remembered for the future. It’s been a really exciting project, and it has been great to record memories, gather information and photos. We are excited to be able to share what we have found with people at the Open Day, and to show off the restored hovels with the new information boards.”
The sites at Cleeve Prior and North Littleton will be open between 12-4pm with short talks on the half-hour, refreshments and an exhibition of photos and local memories.
Coun Matt Dormer, cabinet member for Communities said: “The Market Gardening Heritage project has provided an incredible insight into the vibrant history of the Vale of Evesham. The open day on August 21 gives residents and visitors a fantastic opportunity to see this project come to life.”
Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/open-day-market-gardening-heritage-project-tickets-162536508071 for more.
