New bench and pollinator patch unveiled at Old Bridge Meadow in Bosham

Friends of Old Bridge Meadow (FOBM) in Bosham have welcomed two new additions to the site: a replacement bench and a newly created pollinator patch.

Visitors to Old Bridge Meadow have long enjoyed three benches arranged in an arched layout, offering a peaceful place to sit and take in the atmosphere of the small copse. Last year, however, one of the benches had to be removed after around 25 years because it was beyond economical repair. The Friends then faced the challenge of raising funds for a replacement.

A solution came when Bosham Garden Club — formerly the Bosham, Chidham & District Horticultural Society, and affectionately known as “Horti” — began winding up after 104 years of service to the community. As the club looked for local causes to support with its remaining funds, it agreed to donate money to FOBM for a replacement bench, which has been engraved in commemoration of the horticultural society.

The teak bench, purchased from Wealden Benches, was recently installed by Broad Reach Landscapes and formally handed over to the Friends by former Horti officers Jackie Bowker, President; Steph Fiske, Chair; Rozie Bradley, Secretary; and Show Secretary Jenny Lacey.

Work has also been completed to turn part of Old Bridge Meadow into a richer, more wildlife-friendly habitat. The “pollinator patch” project had originally been due to begin in 2025 but was postponed because of last year’s exceptionally dry spring and early summer. A site near the old milestone was chosen, with the top layer of soil removed and replaced with nutrient-poor loam — the ideal base for native wildflowers, which thrive where vigorous grasses cannot dominate.

Wildflower turf has now been laid, containing a ready-grown mix of 41 native wildflowers, including annuals and perennials selected for their long flowering season and ecological value, together with non-invasive grasses. It should establish quickly and help avoid the patchy results that can come from sowing seed alone. Once established, the new planting will provide nectar, pollen and shelter for bees, butterflies, caterpillars and a wide range of other insects. Over time, the pollinator patch is expected to become a vibrant and resilient habitat — a small but significant step towards restoring local biodiversity.

This work was also carried out by Broad Reach Landscapes, and the pollinator patch was made possible by a grant from the Barratt David Wilson Homes Community Fund.