The gardens at Trinity have been transformed in the last couple of years thanks to the hard work and imagination of a dedicated group of volunteers.

Overgrown shrubberies have been turned into carefully planted flower beds, not just in the main garden but all around the Hospice. Many of the new plants have been donated and the variety of shrubs and flowers when in bloom is stunning – really vibrant.

All the hard work was rewarded when the gardeners were presented with the prestigious Open Spaces Award by Blackpool Civic Trust.

Phyll Ingham, Christine Jesson, Ray Shepherd, Patricia Green, Sylvia Wardley, Lindsay Dunderdale and Jacqueline Ghigi have been joined very recently by Catherine Worthington.

These enthusiastic volunteers turn out in all weathers and also help oversee support from external organisations, which contributes to the improvement of the once unmanageable gardens.

A more sustainable and manageable scheme makes the Trinity gardens a more pleasant and restful setting that provides enjoyment and tranquillity to patients and their families.

Janet Halpin, Volunteer Development Officer says: “Our volunteers are a remarkable group of people. The people who work in the gardens have to face the elements but are always enthusiastic and a pleasure to have on the team.”

Simon Hellawell, Facilities Manager, who oversees the gardening team, says: “They love what they do and that’s great because it makes a real difference to the views and spaces available to the patients at Trinity.

“All the patient rooms directly overlook the gardens and that’s an important aspect. This award is something to be very proud of.”