A Govan charity has turned an ugly derelict piece of land into a beautiful community garden following a 10k funding award.

The charity, Men’s Shed Govan, was set up in 2017 to enable men who are retired, unemployed or unfit for work to have a focus and purpose again. 

After receiving a 10k grant from The National Lottery Community Fund back in March, the Men’s Shed has turned an old nursery site and ‘dumping ground’ into a community garden.

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Glasgow Times:

Sarah Everett, 52, funding manager of Men’s Shed Govan, said: “We’re delighted (with this funding).

“We’ve achieved an awful lot and the guys feel great about it.

“They’re just chuffed to bits because they realise that people are recognising the worth of the group.”

Glasgow Times: Former nursery site before it was a community garden Former nursery site before it was a community garden

Glasgow Times: Men's Shed Govan new community gardenMen's Shed Govan new community garden

It took the Men’s Shed Govan and helpers just four months to complete the garden with areas such as the raised beds and potting plots being made by the men of the group.

The garden is being used to grow produce for local food hubs and poverty charities and even has a boules pitch attached to help encourage more outdoor activity and healthier lifestyles.

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Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

The 10k funding has also been used to create a swingball area, start a cycle leader and maintenance course with “Bike for Good”, and get two electric bikes for those that aren’t as fit, can take part as well.

Sarah added: “We’ve used almost all the funding, but we’ve got a bit left to help with running costs. 

“This is fantastic, as it gives us a real sense of security that we will be able to stay open for a good while longer.

“(which) helps the guys and help them help others. It’s a pass-it-on sort of thing.”

Glasgow Times:

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Katie Still, The National Lottery Community Fund, Scotland chairwoman, said: “This project delivered by Men’s Shed Govan, is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others.  

“National Lottery players can be proud to know that the money they raise is helping to support this vital work and to help communities thrive.”