The Duke of Gloucester was on hand to celebrate the restoration of a 120-year-old temperance fountain in the heart of London on Monday.
The Duke, who takes a strong interest in architecture and restoration, joined the Heritage Trust of London to commemorate the re-opening of the Temperance Fountain in the Kensington Borough.
The Temperance Fountain in Kensington is the second known fountain on the site, and was erected to promote drinking water over alcohol when temperance movements were popular across the country.
According to the Heritage Trust of London’s website, the original fountain was erected in 1897 but damaged by lightning and was replaced with the current fountain in 1900, classically-designed with shells and cherub heads and a cross at the top.
Part of the Trust’s restoration work included replacing missing stonework, which also included the stone cross at the top.
“We have been thrilled to work with Kensington & Chelsea Council to restore this beautiful historic fountain,” said Dr. Nicola Stacey, Director of the Heritage Trust of London in a statement on the Trust’s website.
The Duke of Gloucester unveiled the new Temperance Fountain, which has been mounted with a plaque to commemorate his visit.
“It’s great to see a historic foundation being restored and returned on our high streets that not only provides free drinking water but also helps the environment by reducing the use of plastic,” added Councillor Johnny Thalassites.
The Heritage Trust of London is restoring historic fountains around the City of London to help reduce single-use plastic bottles and create greater access to fresh drinking water.
