More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
There are fears for a community-run garden as the space becomes overgrown because volunteers have dwindled thanks to the pandemic.
Before Covid-19, Shepway Chariots, based in Maidstone, used to host clubs and events for the community in their half acre of green space, tended to by residents, after being transformed from a neglected area in 2017.
But now the charity’s founder fears all the good work will go to waste, and is calling on people to help restore the garden, in Hampshire Drive.
Nikki Gough said: “Before we were there it was a site for fly-tipping and the anti-social behaviour was beyond belief. Since we have been there we have stamped it out. We have come so far.”
Government guidance states you can leave home to provide charitable or voluntary services, while following social distancing guidelines.
However Miss Gough, a mum of four, says some people haven’t felt comfortable visiting the garden during lockdown.
Others have moved away or their free time has been taken up by pressures caused by Covid-19.
Currently just Miss Gough, a teaching assistant, and her partner Ian are tending the space, but she admits it’s exhausting.
She said: “If people are able to help it would mean so very much. Even if it’s just on a weekend and spending a couple of hours.
“We are just asking for the community to lend a helping hand and in return you can grow your own fruit and veg, get out and about.” Gardening, she added, is also good for mental health.
Shepway Chariots encourage local residents and families to learn how to grow, tend and harvest their own fresh fruit and vegetables.
Before the pandemic, the chariots hosted a free children’s gardening club on Saturday mornings, which they hope to restart.
They’ve also put on free Christmas dinners for the elderly, using produce grown in the garden, and Halloween events.
In 2019, the charity was recognised for its service to the local community by the KM Group.
The project has been awarded grants by local councils and organisations in the past.
However, funding has fallen as Miss Gough cannot apply for grants because many applications need a deadline for the project, which she cannot give due to the lack of volunteers.
Are you interested in helping? If so, email nrgough81@gmail.com.
