The Putney home to cartoon character Mr Benn is blooming thanks to residents

Festing Road the Putney home of the cartoon character Mr Benn has another claim to fame. Its sun and other flowers. Seven years of guerrilla gardening have come gloriously to life in recent weeks.



Hugh Thompson has lived in the street for 13 years and plants and waters the seven tree based plots in the street, says: ”For a little bit of effort a lot of joy is given. When I am not around neighbours quickly step up to do the watering and several houses make it easier by the use of their front garden taps. This is very much for and by the street.”

The real problem, besides the effort of sometimes daily watering is the lack of soil. This means a modest outlay every year on compost and stable manure to give the sun flowers, nasturtiums and other bedding plants a chance. While some beds support shrubs and exotic grasses others are more problematical.

“We thought dogs and vandalism would be the problem but any damage has come from car doors. Different sides of the street get different amount of sunshine which makes a difference. But overall its a win, win situation”

September 21, 2019