FUNDRAISING for the second part of building Winchester's newest public garden is about to get under way.

Hyde Abbey Gardens, which was officially unveiled to mark the 50th anniversary of the Queen's coronation last month, is now flourishing.

It was created by the River Park Leisure Centre to mark the burial site of the city's most famous man, King Alfred the Great.

Now work is getting started in a bid to complete phase two of the scheme, with an aim of it being finished by Christmas.

The garden, which has so far cost more than £30,000 to build, has been made possible thanks to donations from local people who are keen to have a new public open space.

It marks the spot where King Alfred, along with his wife and son, was reburied during the Middle Ages in the now destroyed Hyde Abbey.

The first phase of the build saw a flint path installed at the site by Gordon Road as a reflection of the flint build of the abbey, along with holly bushes planted to reflect the pillars of the former abbey.

However, the plans for phase two should see the garden transformed from a building site to a city centre haven.

Central to the scheme will be three stone ledgers, designed to signify the King and his family, which will also have crosses etched into them to remind visitors of the purpose of the garden.

Other plans include a bridge over the small stream being installed, light cages to surround three yew tree 'chapels' being built for quiet reflection, stone and wooden benches, and panels put in to explain to visitors the history behind the garden and how it came to be.

Barbara Hall, who is chairman of the Friends of Hyde Abbey Gardens that raised the majority of the cash to get the build under way, said: "So far we're really pleased with how the garden has taken shape.

"Phase two will see the site really develop and with the addition of the benches, explanatory panels and lighting, it will really feel very welcoming, which is important because it's a garden that has been designed for people to come and use.

"We are particularly pleased that a new path has been installed from King Alfred's Terrace towards the garden, as it makes the site far more accessible for local people.

"We're planning to start the fund-raising for phase two very shortly and hope we can have this wonderful new people's space in Winchester completed before very long."

To make a donation, write to Friends of Hyde Abbey Garden, c/o The Historic Resources Centre, 75 Hyde Street, Winchester, SO23 7DW.