Daph's Corner: A Little Piece of Bonchurch History, Restored
There's a quietly lovely spot by The Pitts that's been given a new lease of life, and a name to go with it.
The plot, tucked into the shade along one of Bonchurch's characterful stone walls, has a history that stretches back over twenty years. It was Daphne Curzon who first saw its potential, clearing it, planting it up with the help of her neighbours, and then tending it, season after season, for years. The kind of patient, neighbourly effort that rarely makes headlines but quietly shapes the character of a village.
When Daphne stepped back, the plot quietly waited for its next chapter. And in Bonchurch, a good story never stays unfinished for long.
Step forward the Bonchurch Volunteers Group, a dedicated bunch of local residents who give their time and energy to help keep our village looking its best. Coordinated by Anthony Briggs (both on WhatsApp and very much in real life), the group took on the restoration of the plot as their latest project. With Julia Wolage bringing her eye for design and layout, they tackled the challenge of an awkwardly shady site and came up with something that feels just right.
The finishing touch?
A small slate sign: Daph's Corner. A simple dedication to the woman who started it all.
The planting isn't finished yet, daffodil bulbs are already in the ground, and more spring and winter flowering additions are planned as the garden settles into itself. As Anthony puts it, they'll give it a season to see how it progresses. Which feels like exactly the right approach.
If you're passing by The Pitts, take a moment to have a look. It's a small corner of the village, but it tells a rather big story about what makes Bonchurch special.