The official inauguration of the pebble mosaic seats at Ilkley's own Millennium Green has taken place. The 'Tree of Life' and 'Living Waters' mosaics are each over ten feet across, and were designed respectively by Thomas Anderson and Katy Wright, students from Ilkley Grammar School.

Atholl Robertson, until recently Manager of Booth's supermarket in Ilkley, unveiled a plaque at the 'Tree of Life' mosaic, sponsored by the supermarket chain. The mosaic depicts roots encircling the earth connected to branches which grow up towards the sun, and bearing coloured leaves to suggest the changing seasons, accompanied by seasonal bird life. The whole work relates to Charles Darwin's interest in natural history, and is situated next to the hedgerow planted by volunteers from the local community to provide a new wildlife habitat on the site.

The 'Living Waters' mosaic, commissioned by the Trust, is sited in a tranquil glade between two streams. Katy Wright's design shows swirling patterns reminiscent of sunlit ripples and shadowy pools, and is a reminder of Ilkley's tradition of hydropathic treatment, which influenced the town's Victorian development as a spa, and was experienced by Charles Darwin during his stay here.

Both mosaics are constructed almost entirely from pebbles gathered from the bed of the River Wharfe in Ilkley, and are framed by gritstone block seats laid by local contractor Ian Layfield. This form of construction thus brings together the crafts of mosaic work - hearkening back to Ilkley's Roman heritage - and the drystone walling so characteristic of the local moors and dales up to present times.

We have also installed an oak seat to take advantage of the view from the belvedere area, which will be complemented by further benches and planting later this year to complete the 'Millennial Vision' monument.

The website now includes a new picture gallery and links to other sites of related interest, making Darwin Gardens Millennium Green a place for all seasons, indoors as well as out!

With the lifting of access restrictions by Bradford Council, the Green is now

 OPEN TO ALL - WELCOME BACK!