Strawberry Field begins work on memorial garden in honour of Sir George Martin
The first ever public memorial dedicated to a legendary Beatles producer is underway.
The rose garden, at Strawberry Field, will is the first of its kind commemorating Sir George Martin CBE - often nicknamed the 'fifth Beatle' - and his wife Lady Judy Martin.
The garden, built at the iconic Liverpool attraction made famous by John Lennon in the Beatles hit 'Strawberry Fields Forever', will feature a curved wall with a biography of Sir George Martin's career, alongside 30 discs commemorating the number one UK hit singles he produced.
A calming water feature and circular raised rose bed will also feature, designed as "a place of peace and reflection," and will be donated by CEO of Orange Amps, Cliff Cooper.
He said: "As a patron of Strawberry Field, I'm honoured to support this tribute to Sir George and Lady Martin. Their impact on music and their dedication to charitable causes align in harmony with the spirit of Strawberry Field.”
Cliff Cooper also donated Strawberry Field its drum shaped bandstand. Credit: Strawberry Field
Before her passing, Lady Martin personally gifted rose bushes to Strawberry Field and envisioned the garden as a lasting tribute to her husband.
It will honour Sir George and Lady Martin, shaped with involvement of their children.
Lucie Kitchener, daughter of Sir George and Lady Martin, said: “The creation of the rose garden at Strawberry Field was a project our mother was passionately involved in.
"We are honoured that the garden will now pay tribute to both our parents, and we are so grateful to those who have made it possible."
“Strawberry Field’s work in supporting young people is extraordinary, and this will add another dimension to an already magical place.”
The garden will commemorate the number one singles Sir George Martin produced in his career. Credit: Strawberry Field
The garden is set to open in spring 2026, with all proceeds from visits to Strawberry Field supporting the centre's programmes which help people with learning disabilities and barriers to employment access paid work.
Major Michelle Lovegrove-Huggins, Mission Director at Strawberry Field, added: "This rose garden will be a wonderful complement to our existing attraction, including the interactive exhibition and the bandstand which was also generously donated by Cliff Cooper.
"The rose garden is the result of so much hard work, dedication, and valuable generosity from our beloved patrons and supporters, and we are delighted to honour Sir George and Lady Judy Martin in this special space.
“Visitors will be captivated by the rose garden, which will enhance the peaceful atmosphere and serve as a place of tranquillity for both the local and international communities.
"It's another way we're preserving the rich musical heritage of this unique site while continuing The Salvation Army's mission of service and love.”
Source: ITV News
