Despite the changeable weather, we’ve been busy with a couple of events. At a Burns lunch for volunteers this month, we cooked our own neeps and tatties, and listened to Tam O Shanter, address to the Veggie Haggis and some great singing. A great way to spend time and take stock on a cold January day!
On a wet and wintery December evening, close to Christmas, the Royal Edinburgh Community gardens became a beacon of light in the hospital grounds. We opened our gates to patients, visitors and friends at dusk until dark, inviting them to take a walk around our illuminated trail, taking in the main sights of the garden along the way.
The event was set up and delivered by young people living in the Cyrenians supported communities, who were taking part in their John Muir conservation award, as part of our Green learning programme. Over 3 months they created visual wonders from Willow sculpted Christmas trees and a Garden Angel, to Christmas wreaths, decorations and bird boxes for sale at the event.
Despite the wet weather we welcomed over 80 adults and children to explore the solar lit path and sculptures, and made over £200 for the Community Gardens from sales of our crafts and veggies, and mulled apple juice from the Orchard.
We hope to continue Winter lights in the garden next year, but until then will look forward to a long and productive Summer. Look out for news from our hedging course, bird surveys and SVQ in Food and nutrition, coming soon!
