VOLUNTEERS have transformed a bramble-filled field into the first stages of Launceston’s very own community wildlife garden.

Launceston resident, Lorna Denney, came up with the idea for the old plant nursery just outside of Coronation Park and approached Cornwall Councillor, Jade Farrington, to help turn this vision into a reality.

Lorna said: “Cornwall Council was happy to give permission for the land to be used, and Cormac offered tools so volunteers could help. The response from the town has been so amazingly positive. Launceston’s firemen got involved and brought along a digger to create the pond, as well as cutting back lots of the brambles.

“Saturday’s event was publicised in the Post, on Facebook and on Launceston Weekly Events List and www.launceston-2020.co.uk. This meant that lots of other people turned up to help clear paths through the site and sow wild flower seeds, which were donated by Woburn Residents’ Association.”

Lorna will be calling for volunteers again in the spring to progress to the next stages. She is also looking for local businesses who are willing to donate a lining for the pond, bird boxes or benches.

She added: “I would like to thank Launceston Fire and Rescue Service, Jayne Cresswell, Jackie Skinner, Rai Fuge, Ian Murton, Karen Farrington, Sam Allen, Jessica Williams, Chris White, Jade Farrington and Alice Horn for helping make such a difference in a single day.

“People can often be negative about some really lovely projects, so the astonishingly positive response on social media has been absolutely overwhelming. I really want to thank the kind lady and children who saw what we were doing and came back with drinks and cakes for volunteers.”

Cllr Farrington thanked Lorna for taking such a positive approach. She said: “The Launceston Wildlife Garden is going to be a huge asset for the town and for local wildlife. Lorna not only came up with the idea, but she’s also willing to volunteer her time on an ongoing basis to ensure this unused piece of land becomes a beautiful haven for people to sit and enjoy nature in the heart of the town.

“I hope people will continue to be as supportive as they have been to date, and that even more volunteers will want to be part of this special project in the spring.”

To help in any way, contact Lorna at [email protected] or join the Lanson Wildlife and Nature page at www.facebook.com/groups/159760417869117 to stay up to date.