Churchill Park will bask in Glory

GLORY: Pacific Glory roses will be planted at Churchill Park. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

The rejuvenation of a Masterton park many people feel is overlooked and under-used is to start within the next few days with the planting of at least 12 award-winning Pacific Glory roses.

Leading New Zealand rose breeder Rob Somerfield, of Glenavon Roses, Tauranga, donated the roses which will be planted at Churchill Park, Solway, and a plaque recognising his donation will be erected.

Pacific Glory, which features clusters of lavender pink blooms with a fawn tinge, was selected as the official convention rose for the World Federation of Rose Societies regional convention held in Palmerston North late last year.

At New Zealand Rose Society trials held in that city Pacific Glory won the Gold Star of the South Pacific and has also won awards in Australia.

It was bred by crossing two recognised great roses Anniversary and Sky Tower.

Masterton district councillor Gary Caffell, whose portfolio covers parks and open spaces, said Churchill Park is a lovely setting which has been under-utilised.

"We are keen to rectify that situation.

"Having these roses there will be a big boost in that regard," Mr Caffell said.