Community group digging in at Rasen to make a brighter town

A community gardening group based at CLIP (Community Learning in Partnership) centre in the town’s Queen Street is the latest group to take on a bed at station approach.

The raised bed and soil has been provided by Market Rasen Rotary Club and the gardening group has been set up through funding received by CLIP from the Postcode Lottery.

“We are just a small group at the moment, but it is something anyone is welcome to get involved in,” said Loretta Rivett, who heads up the community gardeners.

“We welcome all abilities. Sessions usually last for about three hours, but that doesn’t mean you have to garden for three hours - it is whatever you are able to do.

“It could be gardening for 10 minutes and then sitting down for a bit, we just want everyone to be able to get involved.”

The station approach raised bed will be planted as a small community allotment.

“When the things have grown, people will be welcome to come along and take what they need,” added Loretta.

“If you just need a couple of carrots, come up and get them.”

This is the second project the group has undertaken with the Rotary; in February, they planted more than 300 daffodil bulbs on the footpath leading from Old Dairy Road.

Among those taking part in the group is Sue Butler, who is enthusiastic about the benefits of gardening.

“It is such an enjoyable activity and something everyone can get involved in,” she said.

“There is no pressure to garden for the whole time 
and Loretta makes you feel at ease.

“If you need to sit down for a bit, you can - it’s great.”

As well as the station approach bed and the daffodils, the group has also been helping out with the gardens at The Poplars Care Home in Chapman Street and are busy creating a sensory garden at the Nettleton Manor Home.

“We will take on more projects as time goes on, but at the moment I think we have enough to be going on with,” said Loretta.

To find out more about the group and how you can get involved, drop into CLIP or call them on 01673 843489.