A GARDEN swing has been installed in Leicester Cathedral to celebrate the importance of play for well-being.

The swing, set in a paper garden of oversized flowers, fruits, foliage, and wildlife, is an interactive artwork by Mandeep Dhadialla, Plants and Play.

A cathedral spokesperson said that the aim was to encourage visitors “to rediscover the power of play to uplift spirits and spark conversations about caring for the environment. Dhadialla’s work seamlessly blends art and nature, reminding us of the beauty of the world and the importance of cherishing it.”

Ms Dhadialla, a Kenyan-born British-Indian artist and printmaker, who lives in Leicester, told the BBC on Saturday: “We forget to play when we’re growing up. There’s so much of life happening that we forget, and it’s nice to be reminded as adults and to see children having a swing as well, to kind of foster all of that and remind ourselves and reconnect.”

Pete Martin PhotographyThe Dean of Leicester, the Very Revd Karen Rooms, on the swing in the Plants and Play installation

The Dean of Leicester, the Very Revd Karen Rooms, said: “We are a cathedral for everyone. We really want this building to be available to everyone in the city and county, to feel that this is space that people can come and be in, that they can find a sense of calm and peace. We want people to pray and connect with God, but we also want people to enjoy their visit.”

A series of related events is running throughout October, including a free open play session for babies and children up to eight years old, a screening of the film The Secret Garden, and free family craft activities during the Leicester half-term break.

Entry is free from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. daily (although the installation may be inaccessible during services or recitals). The installation remains in place until Thursday 31 October.