Sun shines on the Growth Project

The Growth Project’s prize-winning allotment site on Kellett Street,

The Growth Project’s prize-winning allotment site on Kellett Street, Rochdale, has opened its gates once more for the annual open day.

Over 80 people visited the urban haven and were shown around by the Growth Project members who work hard to build and maintain the site.

Visitors were impressed by how much the site has developed since the open day in 2010.

New features include the completed pond, with a beautiful living willow arbour providing welcome shade from the blazing sun, an orchard under-planted with a wildflower meadow and wildlife areas; along with the familiar and numerous flower and vegetable beds.

Having recently been judged by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) the whole site looked even better than when it won the North West in Bloom best Grow Your Own Award in 2009, so hopes are high for a repeat performance.

The project, which is a partnership between Hourglass and Rochdale and District Mind has benefitted over 60 people with mental health issues since it was set up nearly 4 years ago.

It has proved successful in helping people to build positive self-regard whilst gaining skills and confidence and improving their physical health.