AN outdoor haven for hospital patients coming to the end of their lives has officially opened.

A two year campaign for the Time Garden at Colchester General Hospital has come to fruition.

It will give end-of-life patients with terminal illnesses a place for peaceful reflection with loved ones, away from the busy hospital environment.

The garden was officially opened by the family of Tracy Tye, a midwife at the hospital, who died earlier this year following a brave battle with cervical cancer.

Tracy, who was 51, had tirelessly fundraised for the Time Garden along with her children.

Cutting the ribbon, her husband, Colin, from Little Oakley, said: “The new Time Garden means a lot to my family and meant a lot to my wonderful wife, Tracy, who sadly lost her battle with cancer early this year.

“She saw the Time Garden as a place where patients could come to find some peace and also spend time with their loved ones, including pets.

“It is with her four beloved pups that I am honoured to be opening the garden as part of her legacy.”

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He was joined by hospital volunteers, staff and his family, including sons, Joe and James, and daughter, Jessica.

The garden includes a unique lodge with washing facilities which can accommodate a hospital bed, a decking area suitable for wheelchairs, and flower beds laid out in the shape of a clock face.

The Colchester Hospitals Charity has helped raise £130,000 towards the cost of the Time Garden which was also supported by the Gazette.

Generous donations came from Colchester Hospital’s League of Friends, the Masonic Lodge Charitable Foundation, Colchester Big Choice and Colchester Catalyst Charity.

Interim Macmillan lead cancer nurse, Beverley Pickett said: “I am absolutely thrilled the Time Garden is now open for patients to use.

“The garden is a wonderful place for people to spend time with their family, friends and pets.

“It can be enjoyed all year round as the fully equipped lodge will provide shelter with a view.”

Beth Chatto Gardens, Perrywood Garden Centre and Olivers Plants donated the plants for the garden.

The hospital trust’s medical director Angela Tillett said: “It can be difficult for patients and those close to them to have some private time away from the activity on the ward.

“The Time Garden will allow our patients to have that precious time in a relaxed and beautiful setting.”

There is still some money left to raise in order to see the garden finished.

Head of charity and fundraising for CoHoC, Caroline Bates, said: “We would like to say a big thank you to all the organisations who contributed. The garden has come together beautifully and will only get better as it matures.

“However, we still need to raise a further £25,000 to see it fully complete.”

To donate to the Time Garden Appeal, visit Colchester Hospitals Charity website at www.cohoc.org.uk/time-garden-appeal.