Wimborne Community Garden Grand Opening – 30 April 2023

Established in 2022 by the local community, Wimborne Community Garden is nestled within the grounds of Beaucroft Foundation School. Over the last year the land has been transformed into a sheltered space with raised beds, fruit trees and plenty of fruit and vegetable patches: a space for the community to come together, share skills and grow food.

A quarter of all produce grown at Wimborne Community Garden goes directly to Wimborne Food Bank+. Not only does the garden provide fresh produce for the Food Bank, the school’s cafe and other local food initiatives, it also creates a safe space for people to meet others and build self-worth, confidence and skills through gardening.

Manager Jane, explains how the idea for the garden came about: “I volunteer at the Food Bank and while there I became aware that the boxes that we pack up have lots of good things in them. However, it seemed to me that we were lacking in fresh vegetables.

So, I thought wouldn’t it be great if we could create a garden where we first of all grew produce that we could share with the Food Bank and secondly, ideally, a place where those who come to the Food Bank can also visit the garden, pick their own produce and even be inspired  to start growing their own.”

Jane set about looking for a suitable patch of land and soon the garden was created within the beautiful grounds of Beaucroft Foundation School, benefitting the school as well as the Food Bank. Much work has gone into developing the plot of land over the last year, until it is now ready for the grand opening at the end of the month.

The Garden will be officially opened by The Mayor of Wimborne on Sunday 30 April 2023, 2.30-4.30pm – the ceremony will involve a gardener’s alternative to a bottle of champagne being launched against a ship, with a watering can being swung through a banner!  The event will include music, cake and the chance to meet Jane and the team as well as explore the garden – all are welcome.

It is clear that the garden is not just producing fresh fruit and vegetables but is also nurturing the local community through providing a safe, therapeutic space.

To find out more, listen to our latest podcast below – meet a very enthusiastic Jane and hear how this small patch of land is gently bringing transformation to the local area!