Then we begin to consider what to do with the spaces left by trees that were unsafe and cut down about 10 years ago - how could we turn these into something more attractive?  From there developed the idea to create growing spaces.  Some pallets were converted into vertical planting areas, herbs were planted around tree stumps.

But to do more we needed funding and a plan.  When the Kind Food Grant came up, we saw the opportunity to make this a learning space for the community to work together and make a garden where fruit and veg could be cultivated and shared; a space where novices could learn and old hands could share their experience; where loneliness and isolation could be met with space, purpose and company.

Michele spent time finding out about what could be done with the help of Esther from Team Springboard and the Zen garden. She joined the Food Union on our behalf where we could borrow tools and see best practice.  We made contact with other groups such as Seed Swap in Bedworth.  

With the funding we bought planters, tools, plants.  Some funding will go towards a water butt as part of a guttering improvement project.  We hope to get a small shed for storage.

Donations from library members and also from local companies such as Millwood Marketing (pallets) and Beechwood Trees (wood chippings and a log to make a seat) have all contributed.  People have shared plants they've grown - we have had a wonderful crop of strawberries from plants donated by Margaret, a library volunteer.

We are slowly gaining interest from the local community with new people coming along to help out, even just to keep up with the watering.  

We will make mistakes and have a lot to learn, but we are on the way!