VE Day garden project for veterans' charity

A charity providing gardening therapy to improve mental health among ex-military personnel has created a garden and pathway in one day to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

The fully wheelchair-accessible project was jointly created by Veterans' Growth charity, based in East Sussex, and the National Lottery.

A workforce made up of veterans using the charity, serving police officers and a team of lottery winners gathered at the charity's headquarters, near the village of Westfield, on Monday to build the space.

Sarah Wilson, Veterans' Growth chief executive, said she was "delighted" that the project was able to commemorate VE80 in a "productive and memorable way".

"Creating the pathway and the border, which features plants specifically chosen by veterans, feels like a fitting way for Veterans' Growth to remember VE80."

The garden was formally opened by local Royal British Legion veterans.

Among them was Derek Bates who said he was "very impressed" with the project.

Bill Hardinge said it was a "nice garden to walk around - such a relaxing feeling".

RAF veteran Ruth Doyle, who helped with the planting, said: "It's very moving to be here celebrating 80 years of peace since the end of World War II in Europe while remembering the many millions who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

"In my nine wonderful years in the RAF I learned very quickly that when people come together and unite, great things can be achieved.

"On a small scale, that's what has happened today."

Veterans' Growth said it was important to make the space as accessible to all their veterans as possible, including those with mobility issues.

A spokesperson said the area was "designed to provide a place of peace and reflection".

Designed by veterans, it incorporates plants that are symbolic of peace and remembrance, including remembrance roses and forget-me-nots.

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