Motherwell FC officially opens memorial garden for fans

A memorial garden has been opened at Motherwell FC after the hard work of volunteers and local businesses.

The club and The Well Society officially opened the garden this week after months of dedication.

Located near Fir Park, the garden provides fans with a quiet space for reflection and remembrance of loved ones.

Supporters are also given the option to inter ashes and hold short services to honour a loved one's passing.

The transformation of the previously named Reading Garden began earlier this year after a relative of a fan, whose ashes were scattered there, reached out for help with the overgrown area.

Provost Kenneth Duffy cut the ribbon to open the garden (Image: Jeff Holmes) Brian Caldwell, Motherwell FC chief executive, said: "We know how much the club means to our fans.

"This combined effort ensures we can provide our community with a space where they can feel connected to the club and to their loved ones."

The project was made possible by a grant from North Lanarkshire Council’s RecoverNL fund, as well as support from building and gardening suppliers.

The once untidy patch of land is now a well-defined memorial garden.

Sally Hall, development manager at The Well Society, said: "Football provides so many memorable moments, often in the company of family and friends.

"When they’ve passed, it’s nice to remember the good times, and we’re are proud to be able to restore this space so fans can do just that.

"We are indebted not only to NLC, local businesses and the ground staff here at the club, but to a large number of Well Society members who gave up their time to help.

"Special mention must go to Jim Wright and John Lowry for their time, advice and building expertise and to Tom, John and Billy from Carluke Men’s Shed, who were also integral to the project."

Provost Kenneth Duffy said: "It is wonderful to see the memorial garden at Fir Park revitalised using the RecoverNL grant and for it to become a peaceful community space where people can spend time for remembrance and reflection."

He officially opened the garden by cutting the ribbon.

The club plans a re-dedication event for families next spring when the garden will be in full bloom.