Help for community allotment
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A community allotment in Cwmtillery is being given a new lease of life thanks to the help of Western Power Distribution’s ‘keen to be green’ scheme.
The run-down and neglected patch is being restored to its former glory in the hope that youngsters who have turned to anti-social behaviour will find new ways to fill their time.
The donation from the electricity firm has allowed volunteers at the project to plant Hawthorn around the site, which, once matured, will layer into a hedge and become a permanent and secure barrier.
It is hoped that WPD’s contribution will help the creation of a small habitat for a whole variety of wildlife, restoring some of the original character of the area and giving locals a renewed pride in the landscape on their doorsteps.
The project, run by Bryan Browne is hoping that the project will help youngsters learn about gardening:
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“I have set aside a plot which they are to treat as their own project and assume responsibility for this so that they can learn about gardening in all its forms. We hope to help other members of the community, as for those with mental health problems, we provide a portal to better health through light physical activity.”
Bryan is helped by a dedicated crew of volunteers, coming from all backgrounds in the local community:
“In my crew are single mums, unemployed couples, one gentleman who is a carer to his disabled wife and one lady recovering from a major stroke. And they are headed up by one middle-aged eccentric! It’s an explosive mix!”
The programme is run under BTCV’s Green Gym programme designed to lure all sorts of people into the great outdoors as a way of getting fit and being more mobile. The programme acts as a platform for people recovering from physical trauma or mental health problems and helps improve confidence and general interaction with others while learning new skills.
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January 2010