Growing More Than Vegetables at River Garden
Some of the BCA members attended the River Garden Shed on Friday morning and met the volunteers. It was not initially known that there is a strong group of volunteers keeping the gardens in order. They were delighted with the donation of tools and welcomed members into the shed for a meet and greet to share more about their work.
It was not clear at first, but having now walked around the gardens, greenhouses and polytunnels, it was fascinating to see what is taking place and the positive impact these tools will have. It is not just about pulling weeds and cutting grass.
The River Garden relies on volunteers as an important part of its wider charity mission. Providing fruit, vegetables and herbs to the café, together with maintaining the grounds to attract visitors, is as important as their work with residents themselves. Members were delighted to hear that there are plans to expand this work by inviting community groups of all ages to learn and enjoy a wide gardening experience in the context of helping others.
What struck members most was the volunteers’ passion for gardening and their willingness to give up their time to help others on their journey. It also became clear that the experience benefits the volunteers themselves. Stories were shared of new friendships, community spirit, the passing on of expert gardening knowledge to younger generations, and a strong sense of personal satisfaction. The experience was deeply inspiring.
As members walked through the polytunnels, one of the volunteers spoke about Andy Kerr’s contribution to the gazebo, providing both manpower and materials. There was a clear appreciation for what has been done and for the wider support offered by the Business Club. There is much more that could be written about the repairs and ongoing work carried out by the volunteers, but visitors are encouraged to go and see for themselves, as the team warmly welcomes community interest.
Members also captured images from the visit to share with the club and to provide a better understanding of the valuable work being undertaken. Thanks are extended on behalf of BCA to Joy for bringing this opportunity to the group. Members enjoyed a very positive morning representing BCA.
Did you know that Auchincruive has its own species of strawberry dating from the mid-20th century? Thanks to this kind of community involvement, this local legacy will continue.
