Eaton Barn celebrates their award from the ‘In Your Neighbourhood’ category of the regional RHS In Bloom competition.

The project won a Level 5 ‘Outstanding’ Award, this is the highest level award and it is the first time in the history of this competition that a first time entrant has achieved this level!

Everyone connected with the project is delighted. The whole team have worked very hard and the judges could only award them the highest marks. It is usual for new entrants to achieve level 1 and continue to improve in response to the judges comments.

Eaton Barn Community Garden is situated just out of Leominster. It is easy to find by taking the A44 Worcester Road and then the first right hand turn towards Stoke Prior. The Garden is approximately a quarter of a mile on the right hand side and is open to visitors Monday – Friday 10 -4.

They sell free range eggs and seasonal produce. You can be given a guided tour by one of the participants who will be happy to show you the different areas that the team have worked on.

One of the main new features for this year is the memorial sensory garden. This area was inspired by the work of former employee, Sandra Jones, who championed the idea of having a gardening project for everyone to enjoy whatever their need. With the help of volunteers, including some extra support from the team at The Cart Shed, the decking area and raised beds are complete. When complete the garden will have sensory planting, a water feature as well as an outdoor kitchen and eating area.

Elsewhere on this lovely four acre site you can enjoy seeing what is growing in the kitchen garden, say hello to the chickens and see what’s growing in the poly tunnel.

In the coming months it may be quieter outside but inside will be as busy as ever. The team are planning an exciting Village Fete and Dog Show as part of ECHO’s 30th celebrations in 2020. They will spend the winter making props and stalls, probably watched over by Eric and Pumpkin, the resident pest controllers.