The transformation of an abandoned and historic garden in the grounds of the Victorian Easton Lodge in Essex is nearing completion thanks to two years of dedication from a team of volunteers.
The 18th-century walled garden at Easton Lodge, Uttlesford, had suffered from more than 60 years of neglect before volunteers set to work, and in that time it has gone from an overgrown nettle patch, with abandoned chicken coops and assorted scrap iron, to a grassed, pathed and productive garden.
In recent months the team of Saturday volunteers has removed dozens of self-seeded trees, which have been replaced with 15 fruit trees, stripped ivy from the walls and unearthed hundreds of edging tiles which are now being used to line historic pathways across the garden. Picnic benches are soon to be installed.
The public have had access to the walled garden since the end of last year to see the progress that has been made, however it will be officially opened in April.
Claire Matthews, trustee of The Gardens of Easton Lodge Preservation Trust, said: “The volunteers who work in there on Saturdays, come rain or shine, have every right to feel pleased with themselves and all they have achieved.”
Anyone interested in joining the Saturday volunteer team should email enquiries@eastonlodge.co.uk or leave a message on 01371 876979.
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