COMMUNITY gardeners in Northwich are reaching out for help after their shed and its contents were destroyed in an suspected arson attack.
On Saturday, April 25, Rod’s Secret Garden, on Oak Street, suffered a devastating fire which saw the loss of garden tools and equipment, tables, chairs, cushions, and the shed itself.
Sustainable Northwich, the community group which runs the garden, explained these are essential for the kinds of events it hosts, which aim to bring the community together in friendship.
Police have confirmed a 15-year-old Northwich boy was arrested in connection with the fire, on suspicion of arson with intend to endanger life.
Volunteers have thanked police and the fire service for their quick response, adding it is ‘now time to come together and move forward’.
Sustainable Northwich co-ordinator, Alison Allum, says Rod’s Secret Garden is ‘part of a truly kind and caring community’, adding: “It has brought so much joy to the families, community groups, Beavers, and schoolchildren over the last five years.
“It’s a place where nature, friendship, brews and cake are always on offer.
The volunteers are now looking to replace all their tools and equipment (Image: Sustainable Northwich)
“This fire reminds us we all experience loss in life, however, we can choose how we react.
“By coming together and using the support of nature and community, we can recover.
“Visitors are always amazed when they find this hidden oasis tucked away in the town centre, and really appreciate how nourishing the garden can feel.
“We have lots of wildlife and nature here, and visiting children always enjoy our bug hunts.
“The wasteful destruction which has been caused can be a springboard for more creative projects, and we look forward to meeting new visitors who haven’t discovered us yet.”
Sustainable Northwich has now set up a GoFundMe page to help replace its lost furniture and equipment, and to support new and exciting community projects in the garden, which will remain closed until Saturday, May 16.
Rod’s Secret Garden volunteers said it is now time to move forward and make something positive out of what happened (Image: Sustainable Northwich)
Alison added: “Any donation, big or small, would be greatly appreciated.
“We would also appreciate donations of spare tools and garden seating.
“We are amazed how volunteering has created such a close team here at Rod’s. So many people have jumped in and helped.
“Northwich Town and Cheshire West and Chester councils have also offered their support.”
Donated items can be dropped off at Rod’s Secret Garden on Tuesdays or Fridays between 11am and 3pm.
If this is not possible, you can drop them a message through the Sustainability Northwich website to make alternative arrangements.
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