The installation of new artwork was unveiled at a ceremony in the newly-refurbished Queen Mother’s Garden in Dereham.

The Lord-Lieutenant for Norfolk, Lady Dannatt, revealed the new bronze artwork, entitled The Gift at a ceremony, which also included a time capsule burying.

The sculpture - created by international sculptor Mitchell House and concept designer Susan Ashby - features a rose in a female hand. The artwork sits on a carved oak plinth produced by Paul Downs.

Eastern Daily Press: The Gift with its Oak plinth. Picture - Breckland CouncilThe Gift with its Oak plinth. Picture - Breckland Council (Image: Breckland Council)

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Paul Claussen, Breckland Council's executive member for economic development and growth, said: "I am delighted to see the garden refurbishment fully completed with this inspiring piece of public art taking centre stage. 

"The sculpture complements the new benches, community book swap cabinet, sensory planting and accessible pathways, which will ensure this is a true place of tranquillity and reflection for residents of all ages."

Eastern Daily Press: The Lord-Lieutenant for Norfolk, Lady Dannatt MBE with school children from Dereham Church Nursery and Infant School as they prepare to bury a time capsule. Picture - Breckland CouncilThe Lord-Lieutenant for Norfolk, Lady Dannatt MBE with school children from Dereham Church Nursery and Infant School as they prepare to bury a time capsule. Picture - Breckland Council (Image: Breckland Council)

Dereham mayor Hugh King said: "The Queen Mother’s Garden is a beautiful green space in the heart of Dereham, which I am delighted to see has been fully completed in time for the King’s coronation in May

"I would like to thank everyone involved in this project, including Breckland Council, CGM Group contractors, local businesses, community groups like Dereham Men's Shed, Meeting Point, and Dereham Nursery and Infant School for their involvement in this project. 

"Working in partnership has ensured these gardens will be available for generations to come to enjoy, relax and reflect."

Eastern Daily Press: The Gift - the new artwork unveiled inside the Queen Mother's Garden in Dereham. Picture - Breckland CouncilThe Gift - the new artwork unveiled inside the Queen Mother's Garden in Dereham. Picture - Breckland Council (Image: Breckland Council)

At the event, a time capsule was buried filled with letters, postcards, newspapers, and other commemorative items from the current day.

The items were selected by the children of Dereham Church Infant and Nursery School, offering an insight into what life was like in the town in 2023.

The time capsule has been buried under a slab and will remain there for 50 years.