I first met Ian and Sylvia back in 2009 at Erlas Victorian Walled Garden, and they volunteered every Tuesday up until the gardens closed last March. Sylvia started a popular sewing class for our beneficiaries, whilst Ian went about helping others learn about cultivating the land. His favourite tool was the hoe, but could turn his hand to any implement – the rotavator, the spade, the scythe, the saw and his hands. He would often use these to prop up the old garden walls and reflect on the world passing by with friends. He always had a cheerful disposition, with a smile waiting to break through, and had a fantastic sense of dry humour, which he shared with everyone, making their time with Ian so special. Thanks too to Ian and Sylvia for supporting the walled garden’s many Open Events, where they welcomed visitors and friends alike, and contributed hugely to our ethos. Ian and Sylvia enjoyed the countryside together and explored North Wales either by bike, or walking. They both joined us on a sponsored walk in 2011, where we walked along parts of Offa’s Dyke path, but I know they both have had many adventures together throughout the world. I will always treasure my memories of Ian, and share some of the loss Sylvia and his family are feeling. A special person to have known.

Ann Morton.

Friend and Fundraiser at Erlas Victorian Walled Garden 9.3.21