Spades in hand, a group from five-star housebuilder, Countryside, took over an empty wooded area within the gardens of Derian House Children’s Hospice.
In true UK TV Ground Force style, the team worked tirelessly over two days and transformed the space into a charming clearing all set with fresh grass, planted trees, and picnic tables to be added soon.
The new garden is ready just in time for Derian’s families to enjoy over the summer, as well as the charity’s latest Open Gardens event as part of the National Garden Scheme.
The hospice will open up its gardens in summer (24 July) for the second time this year with a festival theme. Visitors will get the chance to relax in the new picnic area, enjoy live music in the seaside garden and the smile park playground, plus take a walk around the sensory garden and see the newly-added infinity pool water feature.
Alongside the garden overhaul, Countryside has supported Derian House throughout the last year and raised £2880 for their nominated ‘Charity of the Year’.
And that’s not all, Derian House young people, staff, and volunteers were all treated to an ice cream on Friday afternoon thanks to Countryside.
Jo Jamieson, Chief Executive, Partnerships North, Countryside, said: “One of the amazing things about Derian House is the wonderful and comforting environment it has created for local families. It’s one of the reasons it was chosen as our charity of the year, and I know I’m speaking for all of the team when I say we’re truly grateful to be able to offer our support.”
Ellie Smith, Community Fundraiser at Derian House, said: “Countryside has made a part of our land into an amazing space – we can’t thank them enough.
“Their generous gesture looks fab and is ready just in time for our families and staff to enjoy in the summer.”
Visitors to the Open Gardens event in July will get to experience the new garden created by Countryside, as well as the rest of the hospice’s colourful outdoor spaces. From 10am to 4pm, families will be able to enjoy bubble art from eBublio Magical Bubbles and volunteers will be on hand to talk about Derian House and the importance of the hospice grounds. Refreshments will be on offer alongside a variety of stalls for families to peruse.
Parking is free and tickets cost £3 for adults with children going free. Find out more and book here.
