Freemasons’ donation supports next phase of Hedgerow Project at Langdon
A generous £500 donation from Holsworthy Mark Lodge and the Devonshire Mark Benevolent Fund has helped further progress the hedgerow project at Langdon Hospital.
The contribution is funding a rainwater harvesting system on the roof of a newly repurposed container, which provides vital storage and shelter for the project- a nature-based programme supporting patient rehabilitation, mental wellbeing and learning for life beyond Langdon.
The container was donated by construction company Kier, thanks to Open Up - our trust's charity organisation. Our estates team also kindly supported the project.
Kier has recently completed the build of The Brook at Langdon.
The donation was presented by Adam Revitt, Worshipful Master and Charity Steward of Holsworthy Mark Lodge, who visited the site to learn more about the project and its impact.
Alex Watkins, Occupational Therapy Technician who has been leading the project, said: "The container is already making a big difference to the project on a number of levels and we're very grateful to Kier and the Masons for their donations and support and to Open Up our trust charity and our estates team."
Launched three years ago, the hedgerow project has transformed previously unused farmland into a thriving therapeutic space.
Originally centred on restoring a neglected Devon hedgerow, it has since expanded to include:
- Planting over 500 trees and creating an entirely new hedgerow
- Establishing a wildflower meadow
- Reviving a once-lost orchard
- Building habitats to encourage wildlife
- Installing wildlife cameras to monitor and share animal activity
- Creating opportunities for individuals to build furniture and learn practical skills
Jacky Francis, Service Director for Secure Services, added: "We are immensely proud of the progress of the project and how it has developed over the past three years under Alex's leadership, with the investment of time from staff, people using our services and their families. The wildlife is thriving in the area, as are the trees that have been planted."
The latest donation ensures the project can continue to grow, enriching both the environment and the lives of those who take part.
