On 5th April 2025, the Holme Valley Parish Council proudly hosted the opening of two poignant tributes to community spirit: the Memorial Orchard at Sands Recreation Ground in Holmfirth and the Memorial Garden at Honley Library. These initiatives commemorate the extraordinary efforts of volunteers who were part of formal aid groups but also of those individuals who helped others informally, as well as local community groups who united during the time of Covid.
At Sands, former Parish Councillor Duggs Carre, who played a pivotal role in establishing Holme Valley Mutual Aid, delivered a heartfelt address. He reflected on the collective effort of numerous groups and individuals who came together to support one another during the isolating days of lockdown. Duggs also acknowledged the hardships faced by vulnerable residents, as well as the challenges experienced by both younger and older generations during the pandemic.
Later, at Honley Library, a plaque was unveiled by Mr Asghar Khan, a community pharmacist and Managing Director of Medicare Chemists. He expressed immense gratitude to the volunteers who executed the local Covid vaccination programme, a remarkable initiative that safeguarded the health of thousands in the Holme Valley. Mr Khan praised the unity and generosity that defined volunteer efforts during the crisis.
Reverend Ian Gooch of the Full Life Church offered prayers and thanks at both venues. He highlighted the vital role volunteers played in delivering groceries for the Foodbank, a service that saw demand soar from 35 families to 350 during the pandemic.
The projects owe their inception to former Parish Councillor Jason Brook, Chair 2022-23, who envisioned a lasting memorial. Cllr Pat Colling, the current Chair, expressed deep appreciation for his initiative, as well as the contributions of Cllr Mary Blacka, Chair 2023-24, who led the working group. Mr Brook, in his address, also paid tribute to “unsung heroes”—key workers, shopkeepers, carers, and postal staff—whose critical efforts sustained the community.
At Honley, Malcolm Ellis, Trustee of Friends of Honley Library, shared plans for the ongoing development of the memorial garden. He described it as a “garden of solace” that embodies hope and optimism, resonating with the living plants that will grow there.
Cllr Colling concluded the ceremonies by expressing the Parish Council’s pride in these memorials, which symbolise the enduring strength and unity of the Holme Valley community. As she put it, much like the gardens themselves, this spirit will continue to grow and to thrive. The plaques were unveiled at both sites, with Sands’ plaque set for permanent installation at a later date. Holme Valley Parish Council would especially like to thank Hilary Dodson (Northern Fruit Group), John Ford (HVPC contractor), Simon Hirst (River Holme Connections), Andy Wickham (Kirklees Council Parks and Open Spaces), and Malcolm Ellis (Friends of Honley Library) for their contributions to establishing the orchard and garden. These memorials serve as lasting reminders of the compassion and resilience that define the Holme Valley.