19/04/2026
For information
Anyone in ceredigion area who has an organ donor in family can have a small plaque 2x1 put in a bench on donor garden if they so wish
Please contact us through messenger and we will arrange it for you xx
The Penparcau Organ Donor Memorial Garden (often called Claire’s Garden) is a dedicated space of remembrance in Penparcau, for organ donors to be remembered Aberystwyth and ceredigion county council and local councillors supported the project in 2014 along with the organ donor commitee the local hospital and buisness men such as funeral directors .garden centres and the media local community supported the project
It is separate from the village's wider planting and
food-growing initiatives.
Here is the specific information regarding the memorial garden:
History and Dedication
Established:
The garden was set up in 2014 by Alan and Teresa Wilkin.after the county council kindly designated the space for it and built it to teresas design
Using staff who were doing work.in the area
And wanted to.put something back.into the community .
The Inspiration:
It was created in memory of their daughter, Claire Wilkin, who died in 2010 at age 34 from a brain aneurysm. And all organ donors and there families Claire was an organ donor whose donation saved the lives of five people. And through teresa and alans dedication to the cause many more
Purpose
: It serves as a quiet space for reflection for donor families and a public tribute to those who have given the "Gift of Life."
Features and Community Use
Maintenance:
The garden is maintained by Claire’s parents and local volunteers.who are elderly
It is known for being beautifully kept with flowers and memorial plaques.
Festive Traditions
: Every Christmas, the Wilkins decorate the garden with festive lights, tinsel, and nativity figures for the local community to enjoy
(a tradition that continued into the 2025 holiday season).
A nd in summer months is decorated with flags flowers and ornaments to help create awareness
: While it is a place of memory, (the first one in wales at time it was created )
it also serves as a focal point for raising awareness about organ donation law in Wales.and a community garden
Location & Context
The garden is located within the residential area of Penparcau, providing a peaceful pocket away from the main road.
It is Unlike the Penparcau Planting Project
(which focuses on community vegetables and "edible plants.
, This garden is strictly a memorial and contemplative space.and is used by tbe community as meeting place a place to rest
It has become a symbol of the "full circle" of organ donation—most notably in 2025, when Claire’s parents met one of her kidney recipients for the first time
