This year’s 3D floral display in Castle Park, Colchester has gone on public display today and features a 2.5ft elephant to celebrate Colchester’s rich history.
A willow elephant takes centre stage, woven by local artist Jo Hammond, using locally sourced, hand harvested, sustainable willow. Jo first sketched out her idea, before creating a clay model, which she used to ensure she was weaving the elephant in the right proportions. It was then planted with bamboo, verbena, rudbeckia, canna, and begonia.
Three information boards celebrate the elephant connection to Colchester. Including Emperor Claudius marching through Camulodunum (the Briton’s name for Colchester) to receive the submission of several British kings, how Jumbo water tower got its name and Colchester’s more recent Fixing the Link wayfinding trail from Colchester Station to the town centre.
The 3D flower display is located inside the Cowdray Gates of Upper Castle Park and is available to view until early autumn.
Councillor Beverly Oxford, Colchester Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Communities, said: “Elephants have played a big part in Colchester’s history and it’s wonderful to see this celebrated in the park this year. This stunning display will be enjoyed by thousands of visitors of all ages.”
Visit www.colchester.gov.uk/castlepark for further information about Castle Park.
Page last reviewed: 20 July 2021