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Mary Barnes tends to the popular spot she helped create in the heart of the Lismore Circus estate |
Appeal for more green fingers in garden oasis
IT’S an unlikely spot for a wild garden.
Nestling in the shadow of blocks of flats and with a mainline railway track running alongside it, a patch of land in the heart of the Lismore Circus estate in Gospel Oak has become a natural haven thanks to the tireless work of a pensioner and her friend.
Mary Barnes, who lives in nearby Oak Village, and her neighbour Ayla Larke, spend an hour each Tuesday on the site. And they are now hoping for extra help to maintain what has become a much-loved attraction.
Mary first saw the garden’s potential in 2001 when it was merely a piece of scrubland used for dumping rubbish.
She said: “There were a few trees in the middle but it was desolate. It had been used as a dumping ground, and was full of bricks and cement. It looked terrible.”
Eight years later, the garden is a hive of wild flowers and native trees.
Because it is so well established, much of the time is spent pruning – but for the two gardeners, and with Mary using a wheelchair, it is hard work.
“It is quite full so there is not much call for planting, but there is a lot of work to do each week to keep it in shape,” said Mary.
Each spring tenants are treated to a glorious flower display ranging from snowdrops and crocuses through to daffodils. Wild roses, cow parsley, honeysuckle and jasmine also feature, and birds have made nests in the trees on the small site.
Mary – whose husband William was director of Camden Council’s housing department – added: “People stop and say how much they like it. But we could really do with some extra help.”
Ayla has another reason to visit the garden – her partner Paddy died on a nearby bench five years ago.
She added; “This is a form of therapy for me. I come here, help with the garden and remember him.”
• Mary and Ayla work at the garden between 10am and 11am every Tuesday in Lismore Circus, NW5. If you can lend a hand, please go along. |
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