Friends of Victoria Park recently organised a community planting day in partnership with the Barry Rotary Memory Café, local volunteers, and pupils from Cadoxton Primary School.
After the council withdrew funding for planting and watering flowerbeds in Victoria Park, the Friends of Victoria Park stepped in to ensure the popular displays could continue. Through fundraising, donations from local businesses, and community generosity, they raised £95 and received a huge number of donated flowers and plants. More importantly, the event demonstrated the power of community collaboration. Children worked alongside older residents, sharing stories, skills, and a common purpose. The older generation passed on knowledge about caring for shared spaces, and everyone got their hands dirty planting flowers they can watch grow over the years.
Involving young people in improving their community fosters a sense of ownership and pride. This helps build stronger communities and reduce vandalism by giving people a personal connection to the places where they live.
Volunteer Jim Thomson shared memories of Victoria Park from 50 years ago, recalling the beautiful flowerbeds and people sitting on benches enjoying the surroundings. His memories highlight why such projects matter.
In today's busy world, it is easy to lose touch with neighbours and spend less time outdoors. Spending time in nature and working alongside others benefits mental and emotional wellbeing. People need more opportunities to connect, more reasons to spend time outside, and more chances to take pride in shared spaces.
Friends of Victoria Park thanked everyone who donated plants, money, time, and effort. In alphabetical order, they thanked: Andrea Sidford, Anne Corp, B&M Barry Waterfront, Bethan Close, Cath and Gary, Gwenyth Davies, Hannah Gathercole, James Jones, Jayne Williams, Joanne Cheek, Julie & Ciaran, Julie Doble, Leeanne Butlin, Mike Parsons, Paul Ogden, Pughs Garden Centre Wenvoe, Rachel and Martin Harries, Rotary Memory Café, Sandra Hale, Sarah Cross, Susie James, Tesco Culverhouse Cross, The Fruit Shack, The Living Room, Thystle and Bean, and all anonymous donors. They also thanked every volunteer who helped plant and made the day a success.
Hannah Gathercole, Co-Chair of Friends of Victoria Park, said: "Hearing children and older residents chatting and having fun while planting together was exactly what Friends of Victoria Park is all about. Community spaces thrive when communities come together to care for them. We hope today's planting day is just the beginning of bringing more people together to care for and take pride in our park."
To get involved with Friends of Victoria Park, email Friendsofvictoriaparkbarry@gmail.com or find them on Facebook. New volunteers are always welcome.
