GARDEN UPDATE After a long, cold winter the warm weather has finally arrived! At the time of writing, we are getting everything ready for our Open Day on 18th May. Storytelling in our new yurt (paid for by the ASDA Foundation), a talk on the honey bee, performances by our Garden Jamming percussion group, face-painting and children’s craft activities are all planned. Of course, we will also be selling a range of plants, herbs and bedding plants. If you’ve missed it, don’t worry. We will be holding another open day on Saturday 28th September where we will be selling our Harvest produce and a range of garden crafts. We’re grateful to all those who have helped the Community Market Garden in recent months, including Skanska, Cadbury, Synergi, Watford Grammar School for Boys, Watford Girls Grammar School and Farming for All. We hope that you like our first ever newsletter. If you would like to receive it regularly (we’re hoping to write one every season), then please email Rebecca at rpalmer@wnht.org or phone 01923 210 680.
ABOUT US
Watford New Hope Trust (WNHT) exists to serve homeless and vulnerably-housed people by providing accommodation and opportunities to rebuild damaged lives. Founded upon Christian values, which are at the core of our operation, we support people regardless of faith. We house up to 60 people every night and help over 600 people every year.
CREATIVE CORNER
When Owen first came to the garden last September he wasn’t sure if it would be for him. After a chat with Ian it became clear that he enjoyed being outside and loved making things. Owen explained what he most enjoys about the garden: ‘Lunchtimes!’ he said with a big grin. Then, ‘No, it gets me out, fresh air, birds singing and everyone teaming together and working.’ His first project was to make a raised bed for
the Swiss chard and Owen explained that he found satisfaction in ‘making productive stuff for food.’ As autumn drew on, Owen, taking an idea that a friend suggested, built an impressive wishing well and situated it in a previously overgrown corner of the garden which, tackling brambles and thorns, he cleared with the help of a friend. Now with a spray of narcissi bobbing out from a pool of soil it stands as a symbol of hope near the entrance to the woodland. When asked about it Owen modestly replied: ‘It’s good to achieve something and look back on it’ and explained that he loves ‘getting ideas from other people that can be put into structures.’ A talented artist, Owen is now exploring how he can decorate the well with his work. As well as the chance to express and develop his skills it is clear that Owen also enjoys the tranquillity of the garden. ‘It gives me time to reflect’ he says, paintbrush in hand: ‘Any chance of a coffee?’