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20-Year Garden Blooms at Station, Aims for Top UK Prize
18 Oct
Summary
- A couple transformed Hindley Station with flowers over 20 years.
- Their community garden is nominated for Best in Britain.
- The garden celebrates local heritage with industrial sculptures.
A couple has dedicated 20 years to transforming Hindley Station in Wigan into a blooming community garden, now vying for the title of Best in Britain. Sheila and Sandy Davidson began by planting bulbs on a platform two decades ago and have since cultivated trees, flowers, shrubs, and vegetables.
The "Friends of Hindley Station" group, supported by the local community and social media donations, has made the gardens a point of pride. The station, operational since 1848, provides ample space on its platforms and embankments for the flourishing gardens. This initiative has put Hindley on the map, with the couple hoping to win the "World Cup" of stations competition.
The gardens feature a variety of plants, including hydrangeas and sunflowers, alongside raised beds of vegetables. A sculpture commemorating a former local coal mine also highlights the area's industrial heritage. Volunteers, including those with additional needs, assist in maintaining the gardens and promoting confidence in train travel.
