Tea party to mark launch of Barnard Castle Veg Out's "people's garden"

A COMMUNITY gardening project is officially launching its “people’s garden” next month as the organisers prepare for a crucial year.
Veg Out in Barney is opening the community garden at The Hub, Shaw Bank, on Friday, May 19, with a tea party. All are invited.
The scheme began in 2013 when a small group of people undertook guerilla gardening in Barnard Castle. They planted fruit and vegetables in pots and borders around town so people could pick the produce for free.
The garden at the rear of The hub has been developed during the past year or so and is now fully fledged.
As well as growing vegetables and flowers ready for planting around Barnard Castle, the area includes dementia friendly plots for those living with Alzheimer’s.
There is a children’s area and a polytunnel, along with a summerhouse. Veg Out recently won funding to pay for four members of staff and all the project needs now is members of the community to get stuck in.
Ann Barmby, from Veg Out, said: “This is the year for us. It’s gorgeous down there at the garden and it’s heaven when the sun shines. The flowers are in blossom and the veg is looking so well. We want as many people as we can to start using it.”
Planned this year are regular sessions for people living with dementia and regular kids’ clubs during the summer holidays. The group is increasing its publicity to make sure more people are aware of the healthy eating scheme and the benefits of getting involved.
Special guests at the tea party next month, which will take place between noon and 3pm, will including Pam Warhurst, the brainchild behind Incredible Edible – a similar scheme that made national headlines in Todmorden, West Yorkshire.
“She’ll be delighted when she sees what the garden is like,” adds Mrs Barmby.
The Alzheimer’s Society and funders Teesdale Action Partnership will also be represented. Activities for children will also be arranged.