Toby Buckland opens New Leaf polytunnels
Celebrity gardener Toby Buckland was on-hand to open the new multi-span polytunnels at New Leaf in Exminster yesterday.
The sun was out for the well-attended opening ceremony which included live music and home-made refreshments. Our charity Open Up provided the funding for the new polytunnels.
Daniel Robson, Head of Charity Fundraising, said: “It’s fantastic to see this new space open at New Leaf. Projects like this show what’s possible when we work together to enhance mental health support in practical, meaningful ways. This multispan will create more opportunities for people to build confidence, develop skills and take positive steps towards employment. We’re proud to support the team and to be part of something that will have a lasting impact across our communities.”
Della Norris, Vocational Services Manager at New Leaf, said: “This new investment at New Leaf and will not only improve the working environment for people, including improved ventilation and comfort, but it will also increase the opportunity for team work, reduce moving and handling, increase our growing capacity and improve energy efficiency due to its insulation properties.
“Although we don’t expect people using our service to move into horticulture, we have had a number of attendees who have been inspired through their placements at New Leaf and have moved onto nature-based education, volunteering and employment in horticulture and conservation, so it is testament to the impact of rehabilitation in this wonderful greenspace.”
Toby Buckland, celebrity gardener cut the official opening ribbon. He said: "The thing that New Leaf does so magically is put people and plants together and grow the two, and for that to happen you need comfortable space and room above your head. The new multispan is a great space for plants to grow, be easier to look after and a place to rub shoulders with friends."
After the official opening, visitors, staff and volunteers were invited on a tour of the New Leaf site.
Pauline Champion who attended the event said: "It was wonderful to see volunteers in their element, tending the allotment, proudly sharing the incredible work that’s taken place and of course making sure everyone sampled the amazing cake and apple juice on offer. A truly joyful event that showcased everything shared spaces can be."
New Leaf will have a stand with plants and products available at the upcoming Toby's Garden Festival at Powderham Castle on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 May.