Garden project plants the seeds of progress

GREEN-FINGERED . . . pictured (from the left) to right at the new Community Occupation Gardening Project are: Paul Davies, service director adult social care; Trevor, a service user; Councillor Howard Sykes, leader of Oldham Council; Stephen, a service user and Councillor Brian Lord, lead member, adult services and health

DISABLED adults will transform an overgrown garden into a floral haven as part of a new project by the council’s adult and community services department.

A disused patch of land in the grounds of Crompton Cemetery will be used for the Community Occupation Gardening Project which will run alongside similar schemes at Chadderton Hall Park and Fitton Hill allotments.

Green-fingered participants will grow flowers, shrubs, herbs and vegetables.

Councillor Howard Sykes, leader of Oldham Council said: “This is a fantastic initiative that will benefit the community and visitors to the cemetery.

“It will also give often excluded adults the opportunity to learn valuable skills, and to further develop their interests and hobbies in a safe environment.

“I am certain that this latest initiative will be as successful as the other Community Occupation Projects across Oldham and I look forward to visiting the shop when the first batch of produce goes on sale.”

Veronica Jackson, executive director of adult and community services, added: “The demand from disabled adults for this kind of service has been substantial.

“These projects are helping many people who may otherwise have had no choice other than to attend traditional day-care services.”

It is also hoped that a shaded nature walk will be developed immediately behind the site and the produce will be available for sale.

Plans are also in place to sell handmade greetings cards and garden furniture made at other Community Occupation Projects in Oldham.