Under the theme, 'Honouring Our Ancestors, Strengthening Communities', the Bath Botanical Gardens in eastern St. Thomas yesterday received a facelift.

Several residents of Bath, assisted by members of the American diaspora, political leaders, civic organisations and students of the parish, planted palm, bougainvillaea, breadfruit and other fruits trees.

Benches were erected in the garden, and the gate, bearing the name of the garden, was also repainted in its original bright yellow. A pavement at the entrance of the garden was also renovated. In the community at large, a pedestrian crossing in front of the Bath Primary School, located beside the garden, was also beautified.

The garden, which has been written into history, is said to be the second oldest in the Western Hemisphere, having being established in 1779 by the government.

The garden is also said to be the first place a breadfruit tree was planted in Jamaica. The Bath Fountain, a mineral spring, is located a short distance from the garden.

One resident, Marcia Edwards, beamed about the rehabilitation that was done to the garden and the community at large.

"The garden needed some fixing up. The garden needed some brushing, repainting and more trees in here," said Miss Edwards, who has lived in Bath for the past 10 years.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller said yesterday, in her address to the people of Bath, that the National Labour Day project was one of the best she has seen in terms of spirit of volunteerism.

"The turnout of residents here today is strong. It shows that you are willing to honour your ancestors and show interest in your community," said the Prime Minister.