Working on this project was dear to my heart as both my children attended Montalbo School.
A tired, overgrown and underused section of Montalbo Primry School, in Barnard Castle, was transformed into a sensational, railway-themed garden complete with an original goods wagon for children and parents to use following the securing of grants from local county councillors, Northern Heartlands, County Durham Community Foundation, GlaxoSmithKline and Tesco Bags (Groundworks).
A path imitating a railway track winds around the garden which is bedecked with a number of locally inspired landmarks. A miniature Percy Beck viaduct complete with water feature was created by local craftsman Derek Nixon of Anthony Nixon.
It also has a wildlife seat with curved seating and a ‘u-turn’ device, which the children captured memories of local residents who used the railways.
In pride of place at the end of the garden stands an original goods wagon, which was purchased from eBay and had to be craned into position. It will be used for outside learning sessions. A large poly tunnel, which was provided for free by Northern Polytunnels, enables children to grow their own fruit and vegetables.
Signage around the garden has been created and I was overwhelmed to find one of the locations has my name adorned on it.