Killyleagh seat that no-one wants to use

Killyleagh seat that no-one wants to use

25 June 2014

A SUMMER seat erected at a small garden in Killyleagh in memory of one of the town’s most famous sons isn’t proving a big hit with locals or visitors.

The Frederick Street seat provided in memory of Sir Hans Sloane hasn’t been sat on since it was erected four years ago, according to local resident Sammy Davidson.

He lives almost directly opposite the memorial garden and can’t recall anyone ever sitting on the seat, even for rest on a hot and balmy summer day.

Mr. Davidson said for some unknown reason, the seat in Frederick Street has become the one resting place in Killyleagh — famous for its links with Sir Hans and Royalty — that no one wants to sit on.

Sir Hans was born in Killyleagh in 1660 and, inspired by a childhood interest in natural history, he studied medicine in London and France. He became President of the College of Physicians in 1719 and in 1727 succeeded Sir Isaac Newton as President of the Royal Society.

Mr. Davidson says the small memorial garden located at the rear of the Dufferin Coaching Inn is directly opposite the birthplace of Sir Hans.

“I believe this piece of ground belongs to the Housing Executive, with the memorial garden, complete with summer seat, provided a number of years ago,” he explained.

“I can see the area from my livingroom and have not seen anyone sit on the seat for over four years which is something of a mystery to me. I have seen people visit the garden, but never take a moment to rest on the summer seat and reflect on a man who has helped make our town famous.”

Mr. Davidson said he can’t understand why no-one takes time to stop at the garden and consider the contribution Sir Hans made during his life in a range of different fields.

He added: “Maybe by highlighting that the summer seat is there people will use it. It seems a shame that having spent money on providing a memorial garden to a world famous man that more people don’t spend some time there.”