A memorial garden and allotment were unveiled to mark the great contribution a former headteacher made to Acton High School.

Mandy Golding served as headteacher from 2007 until 2010, when ill health forced her to stand down. She sadly passed away in 2011.

Mandy Golding

Two spaces were officially opened at the school in Mrs Golding's honour on June 30 with a ceremony that included the planting of a tree as well as speeches by her husband, current headteacher Dr Sievewright and students.

The opening was attended by current and ex-pupils, staff and members of the wider community.

As well as enjoying student-led guided tours of the allotment, visitors were entertained by live music performed by the school’s jazz musicians.

Mr Sievewright said: “These spaces are both a fitting tribute to a well-loved and respected former headteacher at Acton High and a testament to the dedication of the students and staff that have worked so hard to create them.

"The work that has been done, and the results that have been achieved, would, I’m sure, have been as much a source of pride for Mandy as they are for the school community today.”

Work on the allotment began in July 2014, and following the clearing of the site, a greenhouse and raised beds were established.

The garden is now "flourishing", with crops including beetroot, chard, potatoes and strawberries intended to be used in the catering for the community events the school holds.

Work has been led by Acton High’s Student Eco-Warriors, which strives to promote ecological awareness in school.

The garden features a variety of pink flowers including Pink Cosmos, Pink Lavender and Dianthus, and for its opening was decorated with matching pink bunting, to reflect Mrs Golding's favourite colour.

The spaces have been created by students and staff with support from the Mayor’s Fund for London and the John Lyon’s charity.