Sefton Park’s Palm House has welcomed its 1.5 millionth visitor.
The stunning Grade II listed Victorian glasshouse, which is located at the heart of Liverpool’s Sefton Park, recently saw Edna Smedley become its milestone visitor.
The 84-year-old attended the popular Guided Tour event as a means of exploring the venue’s extensive exotic plant collection, and was delighted when she received the news.
Edna said: “It was a big surprise and a real treat to have become the 1.5 millionth visitor. Having grown up in Walton I would often spend the summer holidays in Sefton Park with my brothers, back when a return train was just one penny.
“As it’s been almost 70 years since I last visited, it’s quite remarkable to see how the Palm House and its beautiful surroundings have developed over the years. Being a keen gardener, I would love to return in the near future.”
The Palm House is supported financially by the Sefton Park Palm House Preservation Trust- a registered charity that was set up in 1996 to support its restoration.
The Trust now manages the Palm House and organises an varied events programme which contributes to raising funds for the maintenance of the building and holding events, ensuring that it remains accessible to all.
And volunteer Sue Tresidder, who leads the Trust’s tour, hailed the structure’s success since its 2001 restoration.
She said: “We are thrilled to have crowned Edna as our 1.5 millionth visitor at the Palm House. Having been a volunteer for the venue since its restoration, it’s great to continue to attract visitors from across the North West and even further afield.
“Although the Palm House has faced an uncertain future in the past, since its reopening to the public, we are proud to have seen it go from strength to strength and are thrilled to celebrate this remarkable milestone in our history.
“Thanks to our wonderful supporters and ‘Friends of the Palm House’ we have been able to keep our doors open seven days a week and look forward to welcoming visitors for many more years to come.”
This year’s annual fundraising dinner is set to take place on Saturday, October 29.