A former school playing field has been transformed into a community garden thanks to Jane Bensen and her team of volunteers, writes Anthony Oliver.

The field, off School Lane and adjacent to Redcotts Recreation Ground, was originally used by Wimborne First School before the school moved.
Beaucroft College then took over the site and allowed part of the field to be transformed into the garden.

This was in May last year since when the transformation into a community garden has taken place.

Last year’s growing season produced a good harvest of vegetables and with the aim of the garden being to donate at least 25% of all produce grown to Wimborne Food Bank it not only achieved this but it has also been able to support the very busy Wimborne Community Kitchen.

Jane said: “We’re always delighted when Food Bank clients come along and ‘pick their own’; the garden is a special place and the more who come and enjoy it, the more special it becomes.

“We’re also thoroughly enjoying building lovely relationships with our friends from Beaucroft and supporting them as they learn about double digging, planting bulbs, wheelbarrowing turf and the general delight of enjoying time outside”.

Over the past few months the generosity and goodwill from all sections of the Community has been amazing. A sensory garden is being developed for everyone’s benefit and especially the Beaucroft students. The whole project is supported by the local charity Faithworks who also support the local foodbank.

All is now set for the grand opening by the Mayor of Wimborne, Carol Butter, on Sunday, April 30, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm.

Volunteers are welcome on Wednesdays from 9.00am -12.30pm, Fridays from 2.00pm – 4.00pm and Sundays from 2.00pm-4.30pm.

Contact via: wimbornecommunitygarden@gmail.com.