Hidden Lands project unveils three new sculpture benches at Milton Creek Country Park

The Deputy Mayor of Swale has unveiled three new sculpture benches at Milton Creek Country Park in Sittingbourne, as part of Ideas Test's Hidden Lands project, inspired by designs from the local community.

Hidden Lands, a co-commissioned project from Ideas Test and Creative Estuary, worked with a community panel to choose artist Patrick Walls to create three stone benches. Each bench feature designs created workshops at the park and with Year 6 pupils from Regis Manor Primary School and members of the public.



Deputy Mayor, Sarah Stephens officially unveiled the statues at an event hosted by Ideas Test and their project partners, Friends of Milton Creek, Raybel Charters, Sittingbourne and Kemsley Light Railway and Swale Borough Council, in particular MIlton Creek Country Park's Ranger Kris Staples and Green Spaces apprentice Rosie.



Lynda Marshall from The Friends of Milton Creek said:

"The benches are lovely and will make a valuable addition to the Park as they will last for many years. They are replacing some of our original carved logs that are now coming to the end of their life and returning to nature."

Hidden Land Project Manager, Faye Thorley said:

"Community and collaboration have played an integral role in the Hidden Lands project, driving every step of the decision process. It has been a joy to work with Pat, the community partners and community participants, who all share a similar vision of creating unity, and opportunity whilst celebrating Sittingbourne's natural environment. The finished results are stunning and will be enjoyed by the local people for years to come. They can’t help but put a smile on one’s face! A big thank you to everyone involved