Reconnect with Nature

Last autumn volunteers from members of Shaftesbury in Bloom, Litter Free Dorset, the Blackmore Vale Partnership, Shaftesbury Abbey, Dorset Council and the Snowdrops team came together in a collaborative effort to improve the flower beds, including the planting of the aptly named, Agapanthus ‘Queen Mum’ at the Queen Mother's Garden. The garden, previously tended by volunteers to ensure it was 'bee-friendly' had become overgrown.

The image shows Jennifer Hirsch (the Beauty Botanist), and landscape contractor, Angela Berwick who supported with the design and guidance on the planting. Since then furniture has been added and the new plants are now maturing.

The planting was carried out as part of the ‘Reconnecting with Nature Spaces’ project which aims to improve or bring nature to small outdoor spaces across Dorset to improve health, wellbeing and access to nature for a targeted group of people. It aims to help people with disabilities and/or dementia to make connections to the natural and cultural environment in their local communities to improve wellbeing after being impacted by the Covid pandemic. The initiative enables groups and organisations to undertake projects which help to conserve and enhance the natural beauty in their local area and encourage engagement with nature, art and movement.

The town council is inviting people to join in this event to mark the establishment of this 'Reconnect with Nature' space.