Council cash has helped create a community garden on a neglected piece of land.

Yatton House Society, who provide learning opportunities for individuals with learning and/or physical disabilities, wanted to create an environmentally friendly community garden near their home in Great Ayton.

Their aim was to provide not only a safe and accessible space for groups and individuals, but to bring different sections of the community together.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The land before the community garden was created opposite Yatton House Society’s buildingThe land before the community garden was created opposite Yatton House Society’s building (Image: Hambleton Council)

Great Ayton Parish Council and Yatton House Society identified an overgrown plot of land opposite Yatton House Society’s building which could be used for the garden.

And thanks to £2,800 from Hambleton District Council’s ‘Making a Difference Fund’ the project began.

Ward Member Councillor Ron Kirk who supported the application said: “The garden is beginning to take shape and will be a valuable asset for the whole community to use.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Work taking place on the community garden oppositeWork taking place on the community garden opposite (Image: Hambleton Council)

"It will make a great outdoor meeting area, an educational resource, a volunteering network, a safe meeting place and an area to sit and reflect.

“This is an excellent example of how our funding can make a real difference to rural communities.”

The project is being supported by Great Ayton Parish Council, Hambleton District Council and many other local charitable groups.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The community garden after the worksThe community garden after the works (Image: Hambleton Council)