Stone painting idea takes off with hundred left in Staffordshire park
More than 300 stones with messages of support have been placed in a park in Cheslyn Hay after two children came up with the idea.
Olivia and Joshua, aged six and five, decided to paint stones after being challenged by Glenthorne Primary School to help spread kindness.
Now the collection of stones at the park off Sutherland Road has increased dramatically – with people sharing messages of friendship, support or thanks to key workers along a path.
Michelle Woodward, Olivia and Joshua's mother, said: "We painted some pretty stones and it's really took off – I reckon there's lots more than we think because every day we go past and there's more.
"It's been really lovely because on local community groups on Facebook lots of people have been talking about it.
"They've posted their photographs of their children putting their stones down – people are thanking the local shops, the post office and things like that.
"We're so proud and it's all been so lovely – it's been a focal point for the village."
Special
The park was chosen as the children wanted it to be a special surprise for their grandmother, who walks past the space every morning.
The family – including father Rod – added a sign asking people to place a stone after the first stone was laid.
The youngsters, who pass by the park each day as part of their daily exercise, have enjoyed seeing the stone path getting longer and longer.
And now people are looking at ways to help make the stones a permanent part of the park.
"We still can't believe the scope of what the children started but their father and I could not be prouder of them," the 35-year-old added.
