For a  number of years my Company, The Garden Design Company Ltd has worked alongside a fabulous Charity The Ways and Means Trust www.waysandmeans.org.uk and their plant nursery, Greenshoots at Peppard Common. Formed 52 years ago, specifically to provide rehabilitation and training for adults with recurring mental ill health or with a learning disability, this small, local Charity’s aim is to provide a safe environment where people are able to build or rebuild their skills, confidence and, where possible, move into full employment with the nursery students learning all about growing plants - fruit, vegetables, annuals & perennials and sell the resulting plants and produce.

But Covid had a massive impact on the Charity; students could not attend, the nursery had to close in the first lockdown, plants could not be grown on or watered and the theft of their ancient ride on tractor meant the grassed areas turned into a  jungle. 

So as we turn 25, will you join us in supporting a  crowd funding page to buy them a new Ride On Tractor to replace the stolen one?  Toad Hall Garden Centre (www.toadhallgardencentre.co.uk) will give one at cost (£1400) so do dig deep so Greenshoots have an easier life next year. Any surplus raised will go towards sourcing  a secure lock up container with the balance going to the Charity for their day to day to use.