Project summary
The second area chosen for improvement was the left-hand side of the church, near the bus stop. Over time, the rose bushes and surrounding greenery had become overgrown and unmanageable, making this side of the church look untidy and closed in.
Our aim
Our aim was to restore the rose beds and tidy up the lawns and hedges, giving the whole frontage a cleaner, more inviting appearance for parishioners and passers-by alike.
A helping hand arrives
Just as plans were being made, help came from Mike Taylor, a professional gardener who lives nearby. After his wife — a parishioner — read about the Gardening Club’s new projects, Mike offered to volunteer his time and skills.
Armed with his own professional tools, Mike spent many hours cutting the lawns, trimming the hedges, and fiercely pruning back the old rose bushes. His hard work immediately transformed the appearance of the garden, uncovering areas that hadn’t seen sunlight in years.
Mike didn’t stop there — he returned the following weekend to finish the job and ensure that everything looked its best. From that point on, he and Ged Mills took on the regular maintenance of the front gardens, keeping them tidy and beautifully presented throughout the year.
A fresh new look
The once-overgrown space is now neat, open, and welcoming, with the rose bushes back under control and the lawns looking healthy and well cared for. The area by the bus stop — often the first part of the church grounds seen by visitors — now reflects the pride and warmth of the parish community.
