‘Sadness’ at sundial vandalism in Christchurch Park
An Armillary sphere sundial which has been vandalised Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN - Credit: Archant
A historic sundial at Christchurch Park in Ipswich which was restored to its former glory last year has been vandalised.
Ipswich Mayor Roger Fern cut the ribbon as the restored sundial was unveiled last year Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN - Credit: Archant
The armillary sphere sundial in the lower arboretum was dedicated to author and historian Dr John Blatchly MBE following its restoration in January 2017.
The sundial had previously been absent from the park for almost 100 years.
The armillary has been removed and is likely to be missing for at least two weeks while it is repaired, according to the park’s Facebook page.
The post read: “We are saddened to report that the armillary sphere sundial in the lower arboretum which we recently restored in memory of Dr John Blatchly MBE has been vandalised.
An Armillary sphere sundial will be missing for at least two weeks, according to the park Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN - Credit: Archant
“We have removed the armillary and it will be repaired by Suffolk Masonry Services. However please be aware that it will be missing for at least a couple of weeks.”
Ipswich School, The Lord Belstead Charitable Settlement, the Ipswich and Suffolk Club, Ipswich Society, Coes, Friends of Christchurch Park and the Friends of Ipswich Museums all helped fund the £6,500 restoration project alongside Ipswich Borough Council, Suffolk County Council and a host of individual donations, with the sundial honouring former Ipswich School headmaster, author and historian Dr Blatchly, who died in September 2015.
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A further post on Facebook from the Friends of Christchurch Park said it would be paying for the repairs and asked people to consider becoming a member for £10 to help fund the work.
