Avenham community garden launched by Preston MP

Avenham Community Garden in Hudson Street, Preston was formally opened today by Preston MP, Mark Hendrick.

The member or parliament for Preston gave a speech before cutting the green ribbon, opening the community allotment that has undergone extensive work over the past year. Mr Hendrick also planted a tree in the garden to commemorate the event.

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This has been a project involving Moving On Lancashire, Lancashire Probation Trust, Contour Housing and the Lancashire Wildlife Trust and of course local people to help transform a derelict piece of land into a safe, accessible open space for quiet recreation, skill sharing and gardening for all the local community.

More details from the Moving On website: ‘The development of the garden was originally funded by a successful Big Lottery Fund Awards for All bid submitted by Moving On Lancashire. Managing Director, Jill Bartram says ‘We’re hoping that having an attractive, welcoming green space within walking distance of the Moving On centre will help improve people’s health and mental wellbeing by providing enjoyable outdoor physical activity, social contact and learning opportunities to raise self-esteem.”

Jill says “There are a wide range of benefits to allotments and community gardens so I won’t be surprised if we are inundated with positive interest in the project. Not only are allotments and community gardens an obvious source of cheap fresh fruit and vegetables, but they also provide an opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, reduce stress, improve well-being, are a good form of exercise and generally they provide a great opportunity to spend time outside enjoying nature.”