A Suffolk college has created a new memorial garden in tribute to a "hugely inspirational" former principal. 

Viv Gillespie died earlier this year – only a few months into retirement – after more than seven years in charge of Suffolk New College and a 30-year career in education.

She was a keen gardener and lover of horticulture, so a vibrant new garden has been dedicated to her memory at the Suffolk Rural campus at Otley, near Ipswich.

The design, inspired by celebrated British artist, teacher and plantsman Cedric Morris, was unveiled during a short ceremony, attended by around 50 guests, where Mrs Gillespie was described as "a great inspiration who did a huge amount for the college”.

Eastern Daily Press: Viv Gillespie, former principal of Suffolk New College, who died in March 2023Viv Gillespie, former principal of Suffolk New College, who died in March 2023 (Image: Simply C Photography)

Principal Alan Pease said: "She was committed, passionate, calm, extremely well-informed, tenacious, considered and understated.

"She could articulate a vision like no one else. She brought about positive change. She encouraged everyone to aim high and made it seem that anything was possible. The college thrived under her leadership. 

"Our community has been devastated by her passing. She was an amazing figurehead and she will be greatly missed."

Eastern Daily Press: Suffolk New College principal Viv Gillespie with students at the 2022 Suffolk Show where they won a double gold award for their garden Suffolk New College principal Viv Gillespie with students at the 2022 Suffolk Show where they won a double gold award for their garden (Image: Suffolk New College)

Horticulture lecturer Nick Nicholson designed the garden and installed it with the support of students. 

He said: "Thanks very much to the Cedric Morris Foundation who enabled us to create this garden. It’s great to have a showpiece like this at the front of the college.

"It was Viv’s idea to have the Cedric Morris link and this is a fitting tribute to her legacy. 

"The garden includes cuttings from the Cedric Morris Rose mother plant which is sought after across the world - so we feel very privileged."

He added: “Viv was hugely inspirational, supportive and encouraging and she brought a new energy to the College.” 

After the speeches, an Eastern Redbud tree was planted and guests were invited to spread soil around the base of the tree.

Eastern Daily Press: Nick Nicholson, designer of the memorial garden at Suffolk Rural college, with principal Alan Pease