Tessier Gardens & Tessier Gardens Friends Group
Next Tessier Gardens Friends Group meeting Monday 8th September 2008 6.00p.m. St Marychurch Precinct Centre.
 |
Situated between Babbacombe and St Marychurch in Torbay, South Devon Tessier Gardens is a place of peace and tranquility. A refuge not only for people it is a haven for wildlife. Maintained by Torbay Council. Map >
e-mail parks@torbay.gov.uk Tel: 01803-207992
 |
Thanks to all the hard work by Torbay Council Parks Department, Plandscape contractors, Tessier Gardens Friends Group, St Marychurch & District Action Group and residents, Tessier Gardens awarded the prestigious Civic Trust Green Flag for the second year http://www.greenflagaward.org.uk/ award page http://www.greenflagaward.org.uk/winners/GSP001461/
Torbay Council website: www.torbay.gov.uk/print/index/leisure/parks/parkareas/tessiergardens.htm
 |  |  |  |
 |
The Green Flag was raised in Tessier Gardens on the 10th September 2007.
The flagpole flying the Green Flag is just inside the main entrance into Tessier Gardens ( Lindridge Road ).
Opposite is the information notice board installed in 2007 by Torbay Council.
Below Greg and John from Plandscape contractors at work in the gardens.
 |  |  |  |
Tessier Gardens Friends Group
 |
A friends group in partnership with Torbay Council would be an invaluable asset. Working in a partnership to promote and encourage interest in the gardens scenic, historical, horticultural, landscape and ecological qualities and as well its educational resource. Actively seeking involvment through liaison with the residents, police, council and any other relevant bodies so that everyone can enjoy Tessier Gardens.
The inaugural meeting of a friends group was held in May this year (2007). A presentation on the Green Flag judging criteria’s for the Green Flag award on the 1st June 2007 was given by Richard Taylor and Lindsay Evans representatives from Torbay Council Parks Department. Many positive suggestions for the aims and objectives of a friends group were put forward by those present.
The main aims in the setting up a friends group was to work in partnership with Torbay Council's Parks Officers and the police to improve and oversee the garden for the benifit of all. Some of the issues raised included some incidents of anti social behaviour and fly tipping. A draft constitution proposal compiled by J.M.L. was presented for approval.
Proceedings commencing up the a group and constitution amendments were discussed at the meeting in July 2nd 2007. An acting chairperson was appointed, other committee positions deferred till next meeting, membership fee set at £2 per year. Various issues along with minor amendments to the proposed consitution were also discussed.
At the meeting held on the 3rd September 2007 a secretary and treasurer elected constitution amendments along with anti-social behaviour problems in the garden were some of the subjects discussed.
Following minor amendments as recommended by Torbay Council Legal Services the TGFG constitution adopted at the meeting on 26th November 2007, to be formally signed at the next meeting. Some membership forms were distributed and annual fees paid, more will be issued at the next meeting. Green Flag management plan updating, shrub pruning to improve the view from the main entrance, removal of a conifer and placement of bird, bat, and owl boxes all under discussion by Torbay Parks Department.
 |
A suggestion at this meeting was for a ‘Donate a Rose Scheme’. The specific aim of this is the research and planting of old fashioned climbing roses, some perfumed. Etoille de Holland and Margret two of the requested varieties. The pergola in Tessier Gardens (installed in 2007) has sufficient space for planting approximately sixteen climbing roses. Members of the group, if willing could contribute to the cost of the roses. The planting scheme has aroused a great deal of interest. A list of old-fashioned roses will be provided at the next meeting in February 2008.
At the TGFG meeting held on 25th February 2008 the constitution formally signed and dated 25-02-2008 TGFG membership, thirty. Posters notifying meeting dates and membership cards produced. Despite notices requesting not to feed the seagulls this is still occurring. A new poster is now in place in the notice board. The donate a rose scheme for the pergola is proving to be popular. Information on a list suitable climbers and rambling roses and Safer Spaces leaflets handed out. Further improvements to the gardens continue interpretation boards, opening up garden views, pruning etcetera. Funding and the festival and Britain in Bloom were some of the various subjects discussed. Preparations ongoing for Tessier Gardens judging for the Green Flag award.
 |  |  |  |
A Treasure
 |
A primary and vital criterion in the setting up of a Friends of Tessier Gardens is a well balanced representational structure. Thus enabling a community group to function in a identifiable and fair manner with the ability to voice concerns. Focusing on how to improve the Tessier Garden’s facilities, conservation and safety will achieve results for the benefit of all. It is in all our interest to ensure a continual sense of community ownership of Tessier Gardens a generous gift from Mrs Tessier all those years ago. A treasure the people of Babbacombe & St Marychurch cherish.
 |
St Marychurch & District Action Group support local and enhancement proposals
Website
If you have any old pictures, holiday snaps, postcards, photographs, memories or any information of the history of Tessier Gardens, or any of the above and/or articles suitable for inclusion on this website please contact: jml@stmarychurchdag.wanadoo.co.uk or publicity@stmarychurchdag.co.uk
1990 storm damage
 |  |  |  |
Three years after the great storm of 1987 on 25th January 1990 the peace and tranquility of Tessier Gardens was shattered by another ferocious storm. This storm swept in from the south west.
 |  |  |
Tessier Gardens was among many areas in Torbay including Cary Park, Warberry Copse and Brunel Woods where once the hurricane force winds had abated, there remained scenes of mass devastation.
 |  |  |  |
Storm damage photographs courtesy Lisa Doran
2008 Tessier Gardens
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
2008 photographs from similar angles where possible to the ones taken after the 1990 storm .
Tessier pond life
 |  |  |  |
Large Red Damselfly, Newt, Emperor Dragonfly, Common Blue Damselfly.
A Polite Request.
Please do not feed the seagulls. Seagulls are natural scavengers and opportunistic feeders. Their behaviour is at times aggressive towards people, particularly during breeding times. The feeding of seagulls can also be a cause of concern and distress to others; en masse, they can be quite intimidating. Leftover food waste can also attract unwanted vermin.
This could create conservation problems with the potential to disrupt the gardens natural wildlife inhabitants. Please bear this information in mind so all who visit Tessier Gardens can enjoy its peace and tranquility.
Thank You.
'Underneath the Archway'
 |
 |
A Monterey Cypress ( Cupressus macrocarpa) tree in Tessier Gardens following an inspection after inclement weather in January 2007 was found to be unsafe and contractors were called in to fell it. To facilitate its removal and in the interest of public safety the park was closed for a few days.
Whilst being felled a section of the tree accidentally cause significant damage to the rose archway. As the walkway is an important feature of the garden a replacement was sought.
 |
 |
David Ogilvie Engineering Limited were commissioned to design and manufacture a new archway. In May 2007 the prefabricate structure was transported to Tessier Gardens via lorry from their engineering works in Kilmarnock Scotland. Gordon and Jan (in Polish pronounced Yan) the company’s fitters prepared the groundwork and began to assemble the structure.
 |
 |
Over a period of three days in brilliant sunshine visitors to the park took great interest as it was being erected.
Due to access difficulties Gordon and Jan carried the prefabricated metal sections from the lorry parked outside the gardens to their location.
 |
 |
Holes were dug out to accommodate the uprights and piece by piece the metalwork was fitted together using stainless steel bolts.
Each day as the installation gradually took shape the number of onlookers grew as did the many favourable comments.
 |
 |
Finally the last of the thirty six supporting posts was cemented in place and covered with soil. One hundred and thirty six sections of black powder coated ( see article below ) galvanized steel approximately 34 metres long, 3 metres wide, 2.6 metres high form a striking walk through archway.
 |
 |
In time the roses in situ plus the addition of a few more will twine their way up and over the structure. Visitors to the garden then can enjoy the walk through a display of colourful and scented roses.
This impressive architectural feature rightfully has pride of place in Tessier Gardens.
Powder Coating (electro-forritic application of powder coatings)
The component first under goes a pre-treatment cleaning preparation process of degreasing rinsing, stabilising and drying to enable the powder to adhere. Then suspended (earthed) and an electrical charge is passed through which attracts the negative powder (a mixture of fine particle of solid resin, pigments, charge agents and additives).
Then the component is placed in an oven and baked, at a high temperature 200C where the powder particles melt fuse and bond to the metal surface which form a corrosion resistant and durable film with a life expectancy of approximately 15 to 25 years.
Brief History & Photographs of Tessier Gardens
 |  |  |  |
Mr & Mrs Tessier resided at ‘Carrigbawn’ ( flats now stand on the site of the house ). Due to Mr Tessier’s health Mr and Mrs Herbert Tessier moved into ‘Carrigbawn’ Stanley Road, Babbacombe in 1903 Mr Tessier’s mother Eliza also lived with them she died on 4th August 1921.
 |  |  |  |
They purchased the three acres of land between Stanley Road and Babbacombe Road in 1906 adjacent to their property to ensure any buildings would not overlook them.
The garden then contained a well-maintained lawn, kitchen garden, arbours covered in roses and two glasshouses one of which they cultivated chrysanthemums and dahlias, which they exhibited at horticultural shows at St Marychurch Town Hall and Cary Castle.
 |  |  |  |
They often opened their garden for charitable causes the abundant supply of strawberries ensured that friends also visitors to charity events held within the grounds could enjoy the strawberry and cream teas. The last garden party held there on was on behalf of the Primrose League.
|  |  |  |
The Primrose Buds dressed up as flowers danced around the arbours; however, some prize apples were stolen, and the cucumber frames were damaged, so ended the garden parties.
 |  |  |  |
Mrs Tessier donated the garden to Torbay Town Council. The deeds to the gardens were handed over to the then Mayor Mr W Denis Thomas ( Chairman of the Parks and Pleasure Ground Committee ) on Friday 27th October 1933 at St Marychurch Town Hall the ceremony was held at the town hall instead of Tessier gardens due to rain.
 |  |  |  |
 |
The Sun Temple built in 1933 in recognition of Mrs Tessier's donation of the garden contains an inscription recording the gift.
One of the covenants was it would be for the use of adults only children under the age of 18 would not be allowed to use the park. This not now rigidly enforced as long as adults accompany children. The Local Rotary Club provided the Braille plants signs in May 1975
January and March 2007 Consultations
 |
Thank you all who during the two-day consultation in early January undeterred by the atrocious weather braved the elements to attend and complete the questionnaire and thanks to those who sent them in. A Friends of Tessier gardens was one of many ideas put forward. On behalf of St Marychurch & District Action Group, we appreciate the time and effort given by Torbay Council Parks Department representatives, Park Wardens DAG members and all who assisted during the two days in January and the March consultation.
Tessier Gardens Friends Group Constitution 2007
1. Name of Group
The group shall be known as Tessier Gardens Friends Group (referred to hereinafter as TGFG )
2. Aims & Objectives
The aims and objectives of the TGFG shall be to form an association of persons to:
a) Promote and encourage the protection, conservation, good environmental practice and sympathetic enhancement of Tessier Gardens.
b) Work in partnership with Torbay Council and other statutory and voluntary groups and recognise that the ultimate responsibility for Tessier Gardens lies with Torbay Council.
c) To actively seek the involvement through liaison with the residents, police, council and any other relevant bodies to achieve a secure environment in which everyone can enjoy the benefits of Tessier Gardens facilities.
d) To engage and involve the surrounding community and visitors in the use and development of the Tessier Gardens.
e) To promote and encourage interest in Tessier Gardens scenic, historical, horticultural, landscape and ecological qualities and as an educational resource.
3. Equal Opportunities
The TGFG will comply with the Equal Opportunities Act to treat everyone fairly and equally regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, and physical and mental ability in all areas of its activities.
4. Membership
a) Membership shall be open to all who support the objectives of the TGFG and its activities.
b) All persons living in Torbay may be called FULL MEMBERS and shall be eligible to vote having paid their annual membership
c) Well-wishers living elsewhere shall be called ASSOCIATE MEMBERS as such shall not have the right to vote at any friends meetings.
d) Any body corporate or unincorporated association interested in furthering the work of the TGFG must notify the Secretary of the name of their “Nominated Member” and shall have one vote only.
e) Each full member shall have one vote.
f) Councillors and Council Officials shall take an advisory role and shall have no voting rights.
5. Subscriptions
a) The annual Full, Associate, or Nominated Membership subscriptions will be payable annually at an agreed rate of £2.00 as set at the Annual General Meeting.
b) Membership shall be deemed as lapsed if a subscription is not received within thirty days of the AGM
6. Financial Arrangements
To further its objectives the TGFG may from time to time do all such lawful things as are necessary, which may include:
a) Arrange meetings, exhibitions, talks and surveys.
b) Raise funds; receive contributions by way of donations or legacies.
c) Make grant applications.
d) Identify other funding sources to secure an adequate level of resources solely for the purpose of furthering the objectives of the TGFG.
e) Non profit making
Provided that in so doing it shall conform to any relevant requirements of the law. All funds shall be used solely for furthering the objectives of the TGFG approved by the committee and members.
7. MANAGEMENT
a) The TGFG shall be managed by a committee of officers to be elected each year at the AGM by those members with voting rights.
b) All Full Members aged 18 years and above who have paid the annual subscription are eligible for election on the committee
c) At the AGM the Members shall elect three officers: Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer and other posts if deemed necessary.
Committee
The committee shall consist of five full members including the three officers and shall:
a) Ensure that accurate records are kept of all meetings, projects and events
b) Liaise and report on all related activities and actions to TGFG members.
c) A committee quorum will consist of three members, one of whom must be an officer and one of whom will act as Secretary in the absence of the Secretary.
d) Decisions at committee meetings shall be made by a simple majority of those present and eligible to vote. In the event of a tie the Chairperson shall have the casting vote.
e) In the event of a committee post becoming vacant the committee may nominate one of their numbers to assume the post who will serve until the next following AGM.
f) The committee may co-opt members on to the committee provided these do not exceed one third of the committee’s total number who will serve until the next following Annual General Meeting.
g) The committee that shall meet at least four times a year.
No committee member shall seek to use their membership of the TGFG to derive personal benefit: financially or in kind in any form whatsoever from the activities of the TGFG which could by implication compromise the integrity and credibility of the committee and TGFG members.
The committee shall retain the right for adequate reasons to refuse or terminate membership of any individual or organisation, after giving the member concerned the right to be heard by the committee before a final decision is made.
h) Ensure that at all times Torbay Council through its Parks Department Officers are consulted where necessary and kept informed of meetings, projects and events.
Officers
The Chairperson
The Chairperson shall be responsible for:-
i) Chairing and conducting committee and general meetings and act as a facilitator to ensure positive, fair and smoothly run discussions.
ii) Thereby involving the entire group in helping to achieve TGFG aims and comply with the constitution.
iii) The Chairperson or the Chairperson’s nominee will act as the representative for the TGFG.
The Secretary
The Secretary shall be responsible for:-
i) The preparation of agendas, notices of meetings, record of membership, booking meeting rooms and correspondence.
ii) Take minutes of all committee and general meetings produce and distribute such minutes within14 days following each meeting.
The Treasurer
The Treasurer shall be responsible for:-
i) Opening and maintaining a bank account (not a personal account) in the name of Tessier Gardens Friends Group ( TGFG ).
ii) Keeping full and accurate up-to-date financial records including the provision of audited Accounts to the AGM.
iii) Paying in money, paying bills, managing petty cash and expenses payments.
Note: Any monies received must be handed to the treasurer.
8. Finance
a) The financial year shall run from 1st April to 31st March in the following year.
b) A bank account shall be opened in the name of Tessier Gardens Friends Group and three committee members shall be authorized to sign cheque/s namely the Chair, the Treasurer and the Secretary.
c) All cheque/s drawn on the accounts must be signed by at least two of the three authorised signatories for that account.
d) Funds may be expended only for the objectives of the TGFG and for no other purpose.
d) The Accounts must be audited at least once per year by an auditor or an independent accounts examiner as appointed at the AGM.
9. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. (AGM)
The first AGM will be held within one year following the inaugural Meeting of the TGFG and thereafter annually.
Any member of the TGFG may submit items to be included on the agenda of an AGM/EGM or general meetings. These should be submitted to the secretary in writing at least 14 days before AGM/EGM or general meetings.
Members shall be given notification of the date not less than 28 days prior to the AGM for the purpose of receiving:
a) The annual reports of the committee officers.
b) Independently audited Accounts for approval by members with voting rights present at that meeting.
c) Accepting the resignation of the committee and electing a new committee.
d) Appointing an auditor or independent examiner for accounting purposes.
e) Setting the annual subscription and making recommendations to the new committee,
f) Vote whenever necessary on proposals to amend the Constitution and other relevant business.
g) Decisions at an AGM shall be by a simple majority vote of members eligible to vote and present at the meeting.
10. Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM)
The secretary must call an EGM giving notice of the matter(s) to be discussed giving at least 14 days notice to the membership which must be held no more than 28 days after receipt of the demand by:
a) At least 20 per cent of the full membership.
b) A request by the Committee.
c) Three members of the Committee.
The notice calling the EGM shall specify the business to be considered and the motion(s) if any, to be proposed.
A EGM may be called in conjunction with or immediately preceding an AGM
Decisions at an EGM shall be by a simple majority vote of members eligible to vote and present at the meeting.
11. Amendments to the Constitution
The constitution may be amended at an Annual General Meeting or Extraordinary General Meeting by a 2/3rds majority of members present eligible to vote.
12. Dissolution and Disposal of Assets
The TGFG shall be dissolved if two-thirds of members consider it necessary, to be decided at an EGM having given members at least 28 days notice of the meeting.
a) Individuals shall not be liable if the TGFG is dissolved.
b) In the event of the dissolution of the TGFG, any assets remaining after the satisfaction of all debts and liabilities shall be given or transferred to a recognised charitable body or bodies having objectives broadly similar to those of the TGFG. Relevant charity/ies to be decided at the EGM considering dissolution.
This Constitution formally adopted on 23rd of November 2007.
Signed
Chairperson ………………………….
Secretary …………………………….
Treasurer …………………………….
Download > TGFG Constitution
Pages
DAG - The Volunteers - Millennium Green - Glen Sannox - Out & About - Isambard Brunel - Links & Constitution
............