South Yorkshire Times August 15, 1959

This photograph was taken in mid June at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L. Oxley, of 139 Thornley Crescent, Thurnscoe. Here we found a tiny garden, oasis fashioned amid the drab surrounding of the railway embankment and constantly admired by adult and juvenile passengers from the passing trains. It took two years before the 6 yds, by 6 yds. plot could be made fit to grow anything, and two more years to achieve the present attractive standard.

“At first it was like a wilderness.'” said Mr. Ogley “but now we are quite proud of it.” There are miniature Belisha beacons, flower basket made of sea shells, a goldfish pond, a stuffed squirrel in a case, a wishing well and many other adornments.

“At first we we had many ornaments stolen.” Mrs Ogley told a “South Yorkshire Times” reporter, “but now we don’t have any trouble with thieves.”

The main plants and shrubs which form the garden include rose and lilac bushes sweet Williams, pastas, stocks and geraniums