Sensory garden is on track to flourish

Byline: NICK LAVIGUEUR

* CLOSE TO NATURE: Amy Powders, three, in the sensory garden, which nestles next to the National Children's centre play train (below) DIGGING DEEP: Burying the time capsule is Deborah Theobould-Ho, by Kirklees Deputy Mayor Clr Christine Iredale (JH300611Egarden-01)Plants grown in the garden will be used in the centre's cafe at Brian Jackson House and they also hope to harvest lavender for sale.The garden was launched by Kirklees Deputy Mayor, Clr Christine Iredale, who oversaw the burying of some of the youngsters' time capsules.The capsules are to be opened in 18 years.The project offers opportunities to young vulnerable teenagers aged from 16 to 19.It will be open on regular days throughout the year to any groups visiting or using Brian Jackson House and the National Children's Centre."The centre has regular open days and in addition to children, we hope the garden will be enjoyed by many people and groups, including disabled and those with learning needs."CAPTION(S):"They have literally created an oasis from a patch of wasteland, and brightened up a conspicuous spot by the side of the railway station.The teenagers raised more than pounds 2,000 to turn the wasteland besides the Huddersfield railway tracks into a special garden. More than 50 youngsters were involved in the six-month-project from start to finish, which included clearing the site, designing it and building it.Deborah Theobould-Ho, who runs the New Beginnings Project, said: "The youngsters have done an enormous amount of work.The young people had written letters, to themselves, about their hopes and dreams.The sensory garden has been developed by youngsters involved in the New Beginnings project at The National Children's Centre.A NEW garden has been created beside the platforms at Huddersfield Railway Station."They sought sponsorship and funds for things such as the wheelchair ramp and the raised herb beds, to make sure the garden can be enjoyed by all.

* CLOSE TO NATURE: Amy Powders, three, in the sensory garden, which nestles next to the National Children's centre play train (below) DIGGING DEEP: Burying the time capsule is Deborah Theobould-Ho, by Kirklees Deputy Mayor Clr Christine Iredale (JH300611Egarden-01)