Huddersfield Salvation Army Community Garden bears fruit

A community project has borne fruit at Huddersfield Salvation Army with the opening of their new garden. 

Volunteers have created a haven with 17 varieties of plants and flowers, fruit trees, a bug hotel and plenty of creative touches outside the church and charity in New Hey Road. The garden is open to members of the public on Tuesdays and Fridays, as well as being a place where community groups can come to relax and enjoy nature. 

The garden, which was officially unveiled by the Mayor of Kirklees Cllr Liz Smaje and The Salvation Army’s Divisional Commander for Yorkshire and Humber Major Al Still, was overhauled by Groundworks, a community group run by David and Fiona Ellis, who work across West Yorkshire to give opportunities to people who are not in employment, or are struggling with mental health and addiction. 

Majors Adrian and Christine Lee, who lead Huddersfield Salvation Army, said: “We wanted to make use of the space and create something for the community, but the yard was in such a wild overgrown state. We got in touch with Groundworks and they really got their teeth into the project. It became a place where the lads could find some purpose and they worked like trojans clearing the place and transforming it into a finished garden which is open to the public. 

"We’re so thrilled at how it’s come together and how people have mucked in. No pun intended! We’re also pleased to see some volunteers have since joined us at church.”

The project benefitted from donations from members of the public and used repurposed and recycled materials, including old car tyres to create a frog, and a bath to create a pond with a frog ladder. The garden will be used for support groups and will provide a sensory space for children with additional needs. 

Volunteer Leigh said they have learned a lot about gardening and will use that in future projects. He said: “We’re really pleased with how it’s turned out, and we had fun doing it. It’s colourful and is a place for everyone, whatever their age. 

“It’s got us out the house, got us active and it’s good for mental health as well.” 

Professional gardener and Groundworks volunteer David, who was presented with a certificate of appreciation by The Salvation Army, said: “The garden is a great attraction and it’s been a privilege for me to help with it and to now meet the Mayor. I’m hoping to continue to carry on volunteering with the upkeep.” 

Fiona Ellis, Community Project Lead at Groundworks, said: “Sometimes I stand and look at it and I can’t believe the difference. To see other people enjoying it is lovely. Aside from David, none of us were gardeners, but we have learned so much doing it.” 

Cutting the ribbon to officially open the garden, the Mayor of Kirklees Cllr Liz Smaje, described it as a place of ‘connection, peace and community’. She said: I hope this garden continues to be the gift it is to the community and a symbol of what can be achieved when we come together with shared purpose and generosity.” 

Echoing that, Major Al Still added: “The garden offers a great opportunity to share with community as a church. I endorse the words of the Mayor - may this be a place of peace generosity and sharing for the good of the people of Huddersfield.” 

The garden is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am. The church hall is also open at that time offering hot sandwiches, cakes and refreshments at discounted prices, as well as the opportunity for prayer for those who would like to. 

For more information search for Huddersfield SA on Facebook.