Cambridge University
The 18th of July saw the culmination of over 250 man hours by New Folium Marquees building fifteen clear span marquee structures to house everything from the main stage audio visual editing suite, first aid and security to the main activities on site. Within the activities marquee guests were invited to explore the world of the Finback Whale, predict what fossils of the future may look like and talk with diet detectives as well as learn about research work Cambridge University is carrying out. The main stage saw Toby Buckland hosting ‘Ask the Gardener’ and Stephen Fry captain the alumni team for the 8ooth Anniversary Quiz. Cambridge based ensemble Prime Brass, Tenors Encore and Shooglenifty kept the guests well entertained throughout the afternoon.
New Folium Marquees 3m wide clear span marquees and pagoda marquees were used by Pret A Manger who prepared picnics for all of the Summer Garden Party guests.
Marquees ranging from 3m wide to 10m wide were used to allow them to fit into the complex environment of the University Botanic Garden. Six, pointed roof pagoda marquees were used by New Folium Marquees to create the “Children’s Fairway” which saw a wide variety of children’s activities including inventing your own plant, rag rug making, Darwin inspired jewellery and listening to a story.
Great care was maintained throughout the New Folium Marquees build and removal as the Botanic Garden houses some rare and ancient trees as well as immaculate lawns. Protective matting, specialist four wheel drive vehicles and small trailers were all used to further protect this important garden in the heart of Cambridge.
The Summer Garden Party was organised by Cambridge University as part of its 800th Birthday celebrations. This was the largest gathering of University and College staff and their families ever seen in Cambridge with almost ten thousand guests.
We would like to thank Katharine Brindley of Events Unlimited and John Parker of Cambridge University Botanic Gardens for their support on this project.
