Apprentices and students have teamed up to transform empty land into a community garden.
Workers from Hyndburn Homes and Hyndburn Homes Repairs joined forces with residents and 16 youngsters at the North Lancashire Training Group (NLTG) to kick-start the project in Huncoat.
The garden will feature dedicated areas for the community to grow their own fruit and vegetables, as well as a compost bay, a polytunnel, water butts and a dedicated seating area for residents.
The youngsters prepared raised soil beds for planting and also took part in a series of workshops and learned about apprenticeship opportunities.
Vicky Smith, work express programme leader at NLTG, said: “Getting involved with community events via Hyndburn Homes allows the young people on our study programme the opportunity to get valuable work experience with skilled workers and apprentices.
“We believe apprenticeships are the most beneficial and rewarding route for young people to take, as it allows them to gain real life experience while gaining a qualification and earning a wage.”
The project at the new Community House on Windermere Avenue was organised by Hyndburn Homes as part of National Apprentice Week.
Elaine Embley, community investment officer, said: “The event provided an ideal opportunity for our apprentices to act as mentors and give NLTG students an insight into community work and their experiences of life as an apprentice.
“The community garden will mean that local residents of all ages, who enjoy the outdoors and are interested in growing their own food, can learn new skills, join in gardening activities and make new friends.”
