Owen Thompson MP visits Newtongrange inspiring community garden to mark Community Garden Week
Volunteers at the Newtongrange Community Garden were delighted to welcome a special visitor on Tuesday 2nd April - Owen Thompson MP.
Article Source: Newtongrange Guerrilla Gardeners
Last Updated: 4 April 2024 15:29
Owen Thompson MP had reached out to the Newtongrange Guerrilla Gardeners to learn more about their vision of sustainability and to see first-hand the result of their hard work, which has seen a once abandoned wasteland be transformed into an award-winning haven for wildlife and for residents.
To mark Community Garden Week, the Member of Parliament was given a guided tour of the garden and spent time talking to volunteers who were keen to discuss the overwhelming support they had received from locals in the ex-mining village, as well as from people across Midlothian and beyond.
It was a typical busy day in the Newtongrange Community Garden as volunteers of all ages and abilities continued to plant up areas, tend to the bee hives, lay fresh bark on the accessible paths, sort donated tools, and come together to enjoy coffee and home-baking in the greenhouse.
Volunteer Paddy Carstairs commented; “We were delighted that Owen Thompson MP could visit and it was great to hear him express how much he shared our view that spaces such as the Newtongrange Community Garden are vital for building a sense of community and for reducing isolation and loneliness. It was also really positive to hear him speak about the environmental, health, and social benefits of community gardens, and how they far exceed any economic value.”
Volunteer Nynke Halbesma added; “It was fantastic to hear Owen Thompson MP recognise how important it is to encourage children to connect with nature from a young age. He was certainly able to witness that at the garden today.’
Finally, Garden Lead Laura Joyce stated; “It was a really positive and productive visit. We were able to show Owen Thompson MP just how much our community garden is valued, not just by the volunteers who get a real sense of achievement by working here week after week, but also by the residents of Newtongrange who pop in to enjoy the space and support our events.”
Owen Thompson MP’s visit comes just days after the Newtongrange Community Garden hosted yet another sell-out event – this time a family Easter event which saw children of all ages take part in a range of activities including a scavenger hunt, seed planting, egg cup decorating, and a solar art workshop with artist Annie Lord.
Inspired by the enthusiasm of the volunteers, Owen Thompson MP vowed to return to the Newtongrange Community Garden – and bring his gardening boots next time!
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