What was once described as a pain patch of grass and weeds has been transformed into a welcoming garden that residents can enjoy, grow fresh produce and spend time together.
The project was led by Maple Creek Gardening Club, with funding from North Yorkshire Council. Mashamshire Community Office (MCO) was pleased to support the project by facilitating this funding whilst they set up a bank account.
The difference this project has made is very clear to see, but during a recent visit, Hayley and Jude got an opportunity to speak with the residents and find out first-hand how integral this space has now become.
“It makes us want to come out and enjoy the space,” said resident Elizabeth Parker, with other residents agreeing that the transformation has made a huge difference.
The gardening club and residents have worked hard to clear, replant and bring new life to the space. A newly introduced vegetable patch is now producing tomatoes, leeks, lettuce and green beans, with residents encouraged to help themselves.
“We’ve got all the vegetables going now… I keep clipping things off and leaving them on the chair so people can help themselves,” said Janet Heaven.
Patricia Harrison added: “I’ve had quite a few tomatoes!”
The project has introduced new seating areas, clearing and replanting around the pagoda, and the repainting of old furniture. Residents have also created a bug hotel, while John Furniss has added something a little different with a mini henge.
The work has even uncovered some hidden treasures. John Bruce recalled discovering a buddleja tree that had been completely hidden amongst the overgrown weeds.
“We didn’t even know there was a buddleja tree there, it was full of weeds, it just appeared!”
Residents have also added their own creative touches, including beautiful metal sculptures made by Janet, whilst an area dedicated to nature has been created with the hope of attracting more wildlife. A hedgehog has already been spotted, and water is being put out for the birds and other visiting creatures.
“We’re putting water out for the insects as well as any wildlife,” said Janet.
One particularly thoughtful addition is the new memorial area. Handmade wooden plaques have been created to give residents a peaceful place within the garden to remember loved ones. When our team visited, they were lucky enough to see the plaques being positioned, a moment that is shared in the photos taken below.
For John Bruce, Chair of the Maple Creek Gardening Club, one of the most rewarding parts of the project has been seeing residents actually using the space.
He explained that nobody came out into the garden before because there was simply nothing there to come out for. Now, the garden is becoming a place to sit, chat, grow things, spot wildlife and enjoy some fresh air.
The project is a lovely example of what can happen when people come together with an idea and are given the support and funding to make it happen.
John said he was grateful to North Yorkshire Council for awarding the Gardening Club funding and to MCO for helping to facilitate this.
Could your community project benefit from funding?
The North Yorkshire Council Inspire Fund supports community groups and organisations to deliver projects that make a positive difference locally.
If you have an idea that could benefit your community, it may be worth exploring what funding could be available.
Find out more about the North Yorkshire Council Inspire Fund
MCO is also holding an upcoming Funding Fundamentals Workshop on Wednesday 30 September at Masham Sports Association, offering an opportunity to learn more about funding and how to approach the application process.
It is free to join and hosted by Community First Yorkshire. The informal workshop is designed to help local VCSE organisations and community groups strengthen funding applications, build valuable connections and learn directly from funders and funding experts. Find out more
