AS transformations go, the changes made to the weed-strewn wilderness that used to be the walled garden at Llanfrechfa Grange, near Cwmbran, are mightily impressive.
And now the public will have a chance to take a look around the garden, at an open day this Saturday, June 5.
Six years ago, this was a forgotten acre on the former site of a Victorian mansion house that subsequently saw service as a boys’ training centre and a hospital.
It once boasted fruit trees and flower and vegetable plots tended by a head gardener with help from patients.
Then came decades of neglect. As hospital life went on around it, the garden fell into disuse.
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Since 2015 however, thanks to the efforts of a small but dedicated band of volunteers, the generosity of countless individuals and businesses, and the award of much-needed grants, this is a garden well on the way to a complete rebirth.
Paths have been laid and a number of features installed, but the stars of the show are the multitude of flowers and shrubs that as summer approaches, are coming into their own.
These photographs offer a glimpse of the progress made in the shadow of the now-completed Grange University Hospital - and on Saturday, June 5, people will have the chance to come and see the walled garden for themselves.
The Llanfrechfa Grange Walled Garden Community is hosting a ‘Have A Grow’ Day, including garden tours, fun activities, and plant sales.
Entry is free, and there are three sessions to choose from - 10am-noon; noon-2pm; and 2pm-4pm.
Pre-booking is essential, by email at info.lgh.garden@gmail.com
For more information on the project, and to get involved, visit llanfrechfawalledgarden,wordpress.com
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