From a lifeless strip of grass to a blossoming garden, Annadale Community Centre's grounds have received a glow up over the past year, becoming a "hidden gem" for all to enjoy. The volunteer group has now been recognised for its contribution to the local area, receiving a nomination for the BBC Make a Difference Awards. Annadale Community Centre Gardening Group meets every Tuesday and will celebrate its first birthday in September.
Residents say the space has not only improved the local environment but has also created a welcoming community hub where people can learn new skills, share ideas and support each other through life's challenges. Kirstie Rowan has been involved since the beginning and is proud of the journey the group has been on, which has been full of "lovely big changes". "We started with the grass, unwanted containers and the polytunnel and now we have all of this – we've got the pond, tree bed and vegetables as well," she explained.
"Every week when we come down there's always more growth, more flowers, new flowers, it really is beautiful. "Some of us don't work so this gets us out of the house weekly and even if we come, we aren't expected to do anything, its just nice to be here with everyone." For Fayth Duffy, being part of the group has been a "game changer" for her after recently moving to the area. "I was really finding it hard to put down roots and meet friends because when your kids get a bit older you're not meeting the mums at the gate, you're not getting out to the other places such as toddler groups," she said.
"We've all become such good friends, we go for coffee together sometimes afterwards and support each other, we'll ring each other to make sure we are all here." For local resident Larry Andrews the group has been a refuge following the death of his wife last year. "I came here for a bit of company, my daughter found it on WhatsApp and I've been coming since September last year," he said. The 87-year-old former butcher has made new friends through the group.
"It's good to meet different people and have a yarn with them… It's amazing the number of people you do find," he added. Amber Jennings works with the group and is on hand with gardening tips and advice. "It means a lot to be nominated for this award - I feel like this is such a hidden gem on the Ormeau Road for people to retreat to on a Tuesday morning and learn how to garden with those in the community," she said.
The primary goal of the group is to "improve the wellbeing of people in the area". Jennings has seen first hand the difference the garden has made to members. "It's been a really uplifting experience for all involved, having that routine, knowing you're outside and being with people in your community," she added.
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