Although it was quite scary, it was also an honour last summer to be part of the making of a new DVD about Reigate Priory.

Priory Park has recently been subject to a major renovation and improvement scheme, funded by Heritage Lottery Grant, and supported by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council and many local businesses.

The gardens within the park were restored very much according to the designs of Lady Henry Somerset, although some of the extravagant planting of her day has been simplified.

The DVD was produced by Carolyn Burnley of BVP, Burnley Video Productions and can be purchased through her website http://www.reigatehistory.co.uk

There is some superb footage of the renovation works in progress and some wonderful shots of the Priory Park lake and woodland. It just makes you want to go and explore the place again, preferably in the sunshine!

Towards the end of the filming, Carolyn asked me what I thought Lady Henry Somerset’s views would be about the way the Park is used today. As we talked, the sun was shining, mothers pushed prams, toddlers raced around the playground and dog walkers headed for the wooded slopes. The flowerbeds were a riot of colour. The air was filled with the sounds of happy chatter and laughter. I felt very confident saying that Lady Henry would have approved.