Gnomes, Meerkats, and Sabertooth Tigers, Oh My!

As I strolled through Holywells Park in Ipswich, I couldn’t help but notice the vibrant garden display at the entrance. Simon Hodding, the mastermind behind the colorful arrangement, had been entertaining passersby for over three years. But, alas, all good things must come to an end. The recent theft of two ornaments, a dinosaur skull and a sabertooth tiger, has left Mr. Hodding and his wife feeling disappointed and their garden looking bare.

A once-vibrant garden display now lies bare

The display, which started as a bit of fun during the Covid-19 lockdowns, had grown into a beloved habit for Mr. Hodding. He began with a couple of ducks and couldn’t stop, eventually adding meerkats, other animals, and gnomes to the mix. The Hoddings had invested in displays for upcoming events like Halloween, Remembrance Day, and Christmas, but the long-term fate of the ornaments remains undecided.

Simon Hodding, the creator of the beloved garden display

The theft, which was not reported to the police, has left the Hoddings feeling disheartened. They had considered selling the remaining ornaments and donating the proceeds to the park, but the thought of not continuing the display is a difficult one to swallow. As Mr. Hodding said, “We’ll see where we go and maybe put them back out again with a bit of CCTV.”

A selection of garden ornaments, including meerkats and gnomes

As I walked away from the park, I couldn’t help but think about the impact of the theft on the community. The garden display was more than just a collection of ornaments; it was a symbol of joy and community spirit. I hope that the Hoddings will find a way to revive their beloved display and bring back the smiles to the faces of those who pass by.

Holywells Park, where the garden display once thrived