A new inter-generational gardening project marrying the experience and knowledge of older people with the young was launched at Arbory School.

The new group - called GRIN (for Garden, Recharge, Inspire, Nourish) - aims to give mums, dads and carers and their children the time and space to connect with nature, learn more about growing their own food and enjoy some company out in the fresh air.GRIN enlisted the support of community group Southern Befrienders to help to recruit some older volunteers with gardening expertise to show the parents and carers the ropes.

Val Haslam, scheme manager at Southern Befrienders said: ’There are older people who have given up a garden or allotment due to reduced mobility or moving into apartment or sheltered accommodation, but still have a keen interest in gardening. We’re delighted to support a project that aims to build inter-generational relationships so that a wealth of skills and knowledge is passed on to younger people. The older gardeners will offer guidance and even be able to do some planting and digging in the raised beds with the aid of the younger participants.’

Mum and community champion Lucy Chapman, who started GRIN, said the group aims to enhance mental well being and is open to anyone with a young child.

’It will be a very relaxed and informal group,’ she said. ’We’ll all be learning together. Having some older volunteers to pass on their expertise is a really important part of what we’re all about. In return we can offer a little company, a lot of fun and cuppa or two.’

Jonathan Ayres, head teacher at Arbory School, welcomed the project, not least because it will help maintain the school’s garden:’The Donny Collister heritage garden is being developed by the school as an inter-generational project and one of the aims is to involve the local community.

’The volunteers will help to keep the garden well maintained and will help to develop the plans for the future. A sharing of expertise, knowledge and skills is also an exciting prospect.’

GRIN sessions are every Wednesday morning, weather permitting. For details about volunteering gardening skills and/or help with transport call Val Haslam on 833025. To get involved as a parent/ carer call Lucy on 378011 or visit the GRIN Isle of Man Facebook page.