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Alan Titchmarsh opens new Ilkley fountain

Thursday, 1 May 2025 10:20

Alan Titchmarsh CBE officially opened the new fountain on Wednesday

Crowds gathered this week as Ilkley’s famous son and TV gardener Alan Titchmarsh CBE officially opened the new fountain at the top of Brook Street.

Ilkley Town Crier Isabel Ashman opened proceedings, followed by speeches from Improving Ilkley who led the project, designer Juliet Gutch, before Alan cut the ribbon, commenting that the new fountain is “amazingly beautiful".

A competition was run to choose the design, which is inspired by sphagnum moss which is found on Ilkley Moor.

Afterwards Improving Ilkley posted on Facebook:

“A huge thank you to everyone who joined us today for the official opening of Ilkley’s newly restored fountain—made all the more special by the presence of the wonderful Alan Titchmarsh.

“We’re proud to be part of improving Ilkley’s public spaces and creating places our community can enjoy for generations to come.

“Here’s to green spaces, local pride, and a blooming beautiful future!”

Louise Hepworth-Wood, a trustee of Improving Ilkley, said fundraising had now started for Phase 2 of the project, which will featuring a brand new poem written by poet laureate Simon Armitage.

Alan didn't just open the fountain, afterward he led the Otley Brass Band!

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