Members of the 901 Troop Marine Cadets, TS Fearless, have been supporting patients, visitors and staff at the James Paget by helping give a spring clean overhaul to our Safe Garden, which includes a commemoration of those who have served in our Armed Forces.
The garden was formally opened in June last year to provide an outdoor space for patients – particularly veterans, those living with dementia and those with autism and learning disabilities – to enjoy.
To create the garden one of our courtyard areas was transformed, with murals, special features of interest, benches and sensory planting among the additions to enhance the space.
On Saturday 20th April members from TS Fearless 901 Troop gave up their time to come and tidy up the garden and get it ready for the summer.
Thirteen young people from the Troop – aged 10 to 15 – came in with four instructors and carried out a range of tasks to clear and clean up under the guidance of our Armed Forces Advocate Chris Blyth.
Chris said; “They did an excellent job pulling out weeds and tiding up flower beds. You could really see the difference afterwards and their efforts have really enhanced the garden ahead of the warmer weather we hope is on the way. The cadets said they really enjoyed helping out and that they would be keen to help again in the future.”
The visit came about after one of the Troop instructors Jo-anne Brown, who works at our hospital, got in touch with Chris to see if there was anything the Cadets could do to help.
The 901 Troop Marine Cadets, based in Winterton, are a registered charity which provides opportunities for young people in East Anglia to develop into responsible, dependable members of society. The Troop promote self-discipline and comradeship. If you would like to find out more about the Troop please visit www.901troop.org.uk or email contactus@901troop.org.uk.
