Dragonfly art unveiled at Bluebell Wood’s poignant service

The poignant event is when families supported by the children’s hospice come together to pay tribute to lost loved ones.

About 200 people attended the special ceremony, which took place in the Bluebell Wood grounds, North Anston.

There was choir singing, poetry, readings and a special display from Ian Russell – aka The Big Bubble Man – who performed free of charge.

Each family who attended also received a bunch of flowers courtesy of Sarah’s Florist in Sheffield.

This year, artist and designer Robin Widdowson has created a unique dragonfly sculpture for the hospice’s dragonfly garden.

He said: “My family have always donated to Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice, so it felt right for me to gift this great charity a sculpture specifically designed for their dragonfly garden.

“The artwork is made from 100 per cent reclaimed stainless steel components used to form this intricate sculpture.

“Last year I was supported by steel recycling centre Kuusakoski Ltd and was asked to donate the equivalent cost of materials to a charity, instead of paying them, so naturally I thought of Bluebell Wood and made the donation: the dragonfly sculpture was, in part, a result of this and subsequent conversations.

“It’s been a pleasure to have created this piece for the garden and I hope it contributes to the tranquillity of its lovely surroundings for those who visit.”

Chesterfield company Metapic Ltd dipped the sculpture free of charge to ensure it can withstand the elements.

Bluebell Wood care services director Emma Doughty said: “Remembering Day is a very special day for us all at Bluebell Wood and it means so much to the families we support.

“The impressive dragonfly sculpture unveiling made the day extra special and it really is such a welcome addition to our Dragonfly Garden where families go to remember their loved ones.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to Robin Widdowson for his incredible dragonfly sculpture, the Big Bubble Man for his wonderful bubble display, our harpist, Lucy Nolan, Sarah’s Florist for providing the wonderful flowers and everyone who made this special event happen.”