How many people realise that we have a National Lilac Collection in Withdean Park?

How many people know about Withdean Park?

There used to be lilac walks during the Brighton Festival with lilac specialist Phil Williamson who has now unfortunately moved to Bristol and has not been replaced.

Over the past two weeks I have seen adults with bunches of lilacs they have picked. Even when told nothing should be picked from a public park, they didn't seem to see what they had done wrong. If everyone did what they were doing we would have no lilac collection.

Happily, though, 200 new lilacs were planted three years ago and it really is a delight to smell their perfume at the moment.

The Friends of Withdean Park are holding a "Lilac Lark", a small event with musicians and singers, reflexology and Indian head massage sessions, refreshments, plant sales, face painting and more this Sunday, from 2pm-5pm.

We invite everyone to come and see our lilacs and our beautiful park.

  • Phillipa Shaw, Friends of Withdean Park, Surrenden Road, Brighton