‘Anything Grows’ Allotments, specially created to be dementia-friendly, were officially opened at New Milton’s Becton Lane allotment site, at a launch event last Thursday.

Recognising the benefits of gardening for gentle exercise and interaction with nature and the community, New Milton Town Council and the New Milton Dementia Action Group saw an opportunity to give some relief to the heart ache and challenges that Dementia can bring to local families.

A seed for the idea was planted last autumn when Wimborne Minster Town Council gave a talk on the Kingston Lacy Dementia Allotment scheme at the Council’s annual allotments meeting. The idea was nurtured over winter, a suitable site identified, with the full backing of the allotment holders,  and a presentation made to the Town Council’s Amenities Committee. The plan was then presented to and warmly approved by the full town council. Action group leader Sue Wiffen, Cllrs Geoffrey Blunden and Bob Murrow worked with a steering group to develop the plan and secure funding.

Finally, this spring, Council’s ground maintenance team, led by Mark Jeffries, estates manager installed raised beds together, a shed and created a sheltered area; and the Action Group volunteers planted the first vegetables and flowers.

Cllr Geoffrey Blunden, Chairman of the Town Council’s Amenities Committee, said: “Today we see that seed of an idea in blossom with these Dementia Friendly Allotments completed which I know will give reward and great pleasure to all who use them. I would like to give a big thank to all those who have supported this this project and made it happen in such a short time.”

Sue Wiffen added: “It is so important for people to have access to outside areas and to feel supported within their community. Anything Grows Allotments open up opportunities for everyone and are currently open on Tuesday 10-1pm and Thursday 1-4pm.”

For more information call Sue on 07884 300641 or email suechef@live.co.uk