£10,000 raised by Ashford outlet for William Harvey Hospital

As part of the Ashford Outlet’s £90 million-pound expansion, an exclusive state-of-the-art immersive experience, has been installed for charity. So far £10,000 has been raised, and the money will be used to help create a garden sanctuary for patients.

The Garden of Light, which recognises Kent’s 400 year-old status as the Garden of England, transports shoppers through the seasons. The exhibit is in three of the units at the newly built entrance.

I love seeing people and their kids, and their wonder at all of the show

Each season and its scenery are inspired by the Kent landscape.

Lights, sounds and scents are used to fully immerse customers through the four seasons; starting off in Winter, then onto Spring, through Summer and ending with Autumn. Interactive walls can be touched to help change each scenery.

“The Garden of Light guests can expect to journey into a virtual garden of discovery, exploring nature’s four seasons represented through the power of light” said Centre Manager Peter Corr.

Employees at the Garden of Light say that the exhibit has been very busy; and that almost 10% of the Outlet traffic has visited the exhibit. They added that they “love seeing people and their kids, and their wonder at all of the show” and that it is a “special experience”.

The money raised is converting a neglected and barren space at the hospital, into a special garden for critically ill patients to relax and reflect in.

Natalie Daly, the Ward Manager at the Intensive Care Unit said: “Our garden will be a safe space for some of our sickest patients in the hospital to enjoy feeling the sun on their face or the breeze in their hair, in the privacy of a dedicated garden created just for them.”

Entry to the Garden of Light is free, however, donations are welcome, and all proceeds are going to the William Harvey Hospital. If you would like to donate online, you can do so, by visiting this link.