For many youngsters the thought of planting seeds, mowing the lawn, and digging up the weeds can be a chore. But a group of north Cornwall children are keen to get out in the mud, in all weathers, to make their dream allotment a reality. For the 91Èȱ¬'s Springwatch season, we will follow their progress as they appeal for the tools they need, and then put their plan into action. 91Èȱ¬ Cornwall CSV's Nina Davey has been along to meet the youngsters. Read Nina's feature and hear a report:
Ìý > Audio and Video links on this page require Realplayer
|
The youngsters of the Dreadnought Centre in LauncestonÌý are very keen to get digging and planting their very own allotment.Ìý But they need your help.Ìý
| Sowing the seeds |
They want to do all the work themselves, but they don't have any of the gardening tools, plants or seeds necessary, and there's no money available to pay for them. Their Youth Co ordinator Lesley Taylor says, "These are not problem children; they are children with problems, usually brought on by other people," explains Lesley Taylor, the Youth Co-ordinator for the Dreadnought Centre. "Some of them have emotional and behavioural issues due to the breakdown of their families or bereavement, others lack confidence."
| The popular Dreadnought Centre |
Many of the children live in flats and have no gardens of their own.Ìý Dreadnought is a safe environment where they are able to come and express themselves freely.Ìý They are keen to work as a team to transform the plot of land into a chill out zone and wildlife haven. The Duchy of Cornwall have given the land and employed contractors to clear it.Ìý It is hoped the land will be turned into an allotment where they may grow flowers and vegetables.Ìý They are also keen to encourage birds and want to make their own bird tables and boxes.Ìý Offers of plants, seeds, paving slabs, timber, rakes, forks, spades, trowels etc and evenÌý a summerhouse can be made via the 91Èȱ¬ Cornwall CSV number 01872 225522 |