A village GP surgery is creating a new treatment plan that does not rely on pills from a bottle or a jab.

Staff at Minster Surgery near Ramsgate believe they may have just the tonic for recovering patients in the form of a therapy garden.

It is believed the garden will offer both mental and physical well-being benefits, especially for those suffering from isolation and anxiety.

But it could also help patients recovering from physical surgery or illness.

The therapy garden is the idea of practice manager Sandra Houghton following a £10,000 legacy from a former patient.

Now a crowdfunding appeal has been launched in a bid to raise £30,760 needed to complete the groundbreaking scheme.

The vision is to transform a redundant plot of land on the surgery site off the High Street into a garden haven, featuring flower and vegetable plots, fruit trees and a solar-powered cabin for users to sit and enjoy cups of tea or coffee.

The scheme is being planned and co-ordinated by Stuart Male, a graphic designer who has previous experience in helping to develop a community garden in Margate.

And already the crowdfunder has raised more than £12,000, including the legacy.

“It will be the first therapy garden of its kind for a GP surgery in the Thanet area,” said Mr Male.

“First and foremost the garden will provide healing to patients that need some extra support, whether they are suffering from isolation, overcoming some physical issues as a result of surgery or ill health.

“It will help improve the mental health of all participants involved, allowing them to sow seeds, grow vegetables, tend to plant beds, and even make a cup of tea, have a chat and relax in a nature-filled environment.”

Creating the garden will involve surrounding the 300 sq m plot with fences and gates, erecting a polytunnel for year-round growing, planting fruit trees, herbs and vegetables and building raised planters.

A pond, bird boxes and bug ‘hotels’ will be installed and a wildflower patch created and even an artist-commissioned sculpture.

“We have got off to a good start with the fundraising, thanks to the generous legacy and now hope the people of Minster and local businesses will help us reach their target,” said Mr Male.

“There is also the offer of grants from Kent County Council and the NHS.”

Villager Nicolette MacKenzie said: “I think it’s going to be absolutely terrific. Frankly, my garden saved me over the lockdown and it will be a hugely important thing.”

Cindy Goodwin added: “It’s a fabulous idea and will help people mix with others and enjoy their company.”

It is hoped the garden will open in the spring of 2024.

To donate to the appeal go to www.spacehive.com/minstersurgerytherapygarden.