To fit in with the theme and the history of the Chapel (not a monastic community strictly speaking, but certainly an ancient ecclesiastical site) I gave a brief history of herbal medicine in Britain with an emphasis on the monastic communities who were very skilled hospitalers and practitioners of the herbal arts. We started our talk in the Chapel, but as the weather was good, we then went as a group to look at individual flowers and plants in the herb garden. Here we explored the history of their usage and talked about some of the interesting folklore that often attaches itself to medicinal plants, finally coming up to date to discuss their use in modern herbal medicine. People chipped in with their own experiences of using herbs for both medicinal and culinary purposes, which was very interesting for me.
The event was organised by 'The Friends of Chadkirk' a group of volunteers who have done some amazing work at this beautiful spot in concert with Stockport Borough Council Heritage and Parks and Gardens Departments. All proceeds from my talk went to a fund being set up to buy a new stained glass window for the chapel and I shall feel quite proud that, when it is installed, I can perhaps say that I contributed to a tiny pane of it.
Just for info, this tiny ancient Chapel, which served the small community of Chadkirk as a place of worship for many centuries, is tucked away amidst fields of wildflowers, not far from the river Goyt. Although only a small place it is certainly well worth a visit, if only to listen to the birds, admire the flowers and imbibe the peace (also you can imbibe a cup of tea or coffee at the Chapel on weekend afternoons).
The garden (and Chapel) is a testament to the hard work of both volunteers and the group professional who work for Stockport Borough Council, who all love the place - and my word - does it show! Pleasant shortish and non demanding circular walks have been laid out around the area and Stockport Council have just built and opened a new bridge across the river that gives access to a whole range of other footpaths going to Marple and beyond.
Really smashing, if you are looking for an oasis of green tranquility in the midst of the buy town!
If you want to know more about my talk or about Chadkirk itself, volunteering at the Chapel and some of the events held there, there is an excellent blog and website at www.friendsofchadkirk.wordpress.com.