New bandstand for St George’s Park
News release issued:
A new bandstand has opened in St George’s Park, Kidderminster this week.
The steel structure was installed thanks to Wyre Forest District Council and the Friends of St George’s Park group.
The park was a gift to the people of Kidderminster in 1927 by three former mayors of the town, George Woodward, Cecil Brinton and Reginald Brinton. A bandstand was an integral part of the original plans and layout. It also had tennis courts, bowling green and ornamental landscaped gardens. The bandstand was central to the opening ceremony which was conducted by Lord Cobham in July 1927.
A section of the park was remodelled when the ring road was built in the early 1960’s, this included the loss of the bandstand. In 2008 an active Friends group was formed. They have been working with community groups and the Wyre Forest District Council to re-establish and reform the park.
The new bandstand replicates the original wooden one but in more durable material. It includes disabled access and has been built where the Old Pals Shelter once stood.
Councillor John Thomas, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member for Operational Services said:
“Many thanks to the Friends of St George’s Park who have been fantastic working with us to get a bandstand back in the park. We think it looks great and hope that it will once again become a focal point for the park."
Friends of St George's Park Chairman Ray Ridsdill-Wardle said:
"We would like to thank Leander Architectural for working with us to produce and install this great addition to St George's Park in our 95th year. This was made possible by the many individuals who contributed in our collection tubs and Quiz Night, the support of Big Local DY10 and our local town, district and county councillors. Ceiling and flooring finish will be completed soon along with planned landscaping.
We intend to hold an official opening at our Family Fun Day on Saturday 22 April 2023 and also look forward to welcoming West Mercia Police band next month at our Carols and mince pies in the Park event on Friday 9 December from 5.45pm-7.00pm"
For more pictures and information visit the Friends of St George’s Park, Kidderminster group on Facebook.
Photograph shows (from left to right), Alan Breen, Wyre Forest District Council’s Landscape Development Officer, Spike Betterton from Friends of St. George’s Park Group, Councillor John Thomas, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Operational Services and Sue Bradley from the Friends of St. George’s Park Group.