Sheltered scheme residents enjoy their garden of delights

Wednesday, 20 June 2012

Residents at a sheltered housing scheme for over 60’s in Harrogate have been busy transforming a dilapidated area of ground into a fantastic new garden after receiving £27,390 of lottery cash.

Work began in February and is now complete in time for residents to enjoy the facilities during the summer months. The project has been a joint initiative between the residents, Guinness Care and Support, Guinness Northern Counties and Groundwork Wakefield with funding from The Big Lottery Fund.

The 59 residents from Montpellier Court, in Cold Bath Road- which is managed by Guinness Care and Support and Guinness Northern Counties- have been heavily involved in all aspects of the work including creating the planting plan, overseeing all the construction work, digging the borders and planting the flowers.

Resident Nancy Murray helped to plant many of the shrubs in the garden which were provided by Daleside Nurseries and Park Nurseries. Nancy said: “I have really enjoyed helping out with the gardening, everybody has worked so hard and it has really united the residents. What a pleasure it is to sit in the garden, taking in the fresh air, flowers and wildlife.”

To celebrate the completion of the work, an official opening of the garden was held on Friday (15/06/2012). All who had supported the project were invited to come and see the successful results. The garden which was funded by Community Spaces, Big Lottery Fund, includes a gazebo and pergola at the entrance, with seated areas all around, a herb garden and a sensory garden.

Etta Tattersdill, aged 99, who was the first resident to move into Montpellier Court 32 years ago, cut the ribbon alongside Cllr Jean Butterfield to signal the opening of the garden. Etta said: “For the sun seekers, may the sun shine on our golden corner. It is the first time we have had a garden at Montpellier Court and it is lovely to sit outside, relax and enjoy the tranquillity.”

A competition was held between the residents to name the garden. The unanimous decision was Victoria Garden as the Victoria Hotel was on the site previous to Montpellier Court being built. The name has been carved on the pergola at the entrance of the garden.

Bruce Miller, aged 65, a resident who was involved in the application process, said “All the residents are delighted with the garden; it is a delight to the eye.” He thanked all the partners and fund facilitators for their support with the project.