The Friends of Horsham Park recently marked the 40th national Volunteers’ Week with an event to celebrate the achievements of their own volunteers.
Twenty volunteers, most of them part of the Wednesday Gardening group, joined in a Bowls Bash hosted by Horsham Park Bowls Club. Despite unpromising weather, volunteers enjoyed learning the sport, which takes place at the Club, next to the tennis courts, several times a week from April-September.
Last year, Friends of Horsham Park volunteers clocked up an impressive 2235 hours in the Park, helping to keep this beautiful green space looking appealing and colourful year round. Their hard work helped to win the Park two awards in the South & South East in Bloom scheme last year, and its fourth Green Flag. In addition, The Friends’ committee contributed a further 1000 hours: raising funds, promoting the park and liaising with other volunteer groups and Horsham District Council.
Speaking in the Club house, Friends of Horsham Park chair Sally Sanderson said: “Horsham Park users frequently stop the Wednesday Gardening Volunteers to thank us for our efforts and say what a difference we make. That gratitude goes a long way, especially after bad weather gardening sessions!”
“Today is about celebrating all that we’ve achieved in the 7 years since the Friends started, and to connect with others who partner with us and share our aims for the Park: the Horsham District Council Parks & Countryside team, Denne Neighbourhood Council, Strawford Centre, QEII School, Men in Sheds and the Samaritans, who we worked with on their ‘Bulbs for Life’ campaign.”
Asked what they enjoyed about their volunteering with the Friends, the group cited “meeting new people”, “giving back to the community”, “working outdoors with a great team” and “feeling a sense of achievement.”
The Friends of Horsham Park’s Wednesday Gardening & Conservation Group meets every Wednesday from 9.30 -12.30, carrying out gardening projects in the Park. There is also a group who tend to the Ribbon Borders on North Street on the second Sunday of every month at 10.00. No experience is needed and all equipment is provided. To find out more, contact [email protected]. Or drop by the Friends of Horsham Park’s stand at Funday Sunday, in the Park on 7 July.
Image: Friends of Horsham Park volunteers celebrate at Horsham Park Bowling Club
