PEOPLE met up to swap seeds, plants and good ideas at Emersons Green’s Spring Gathering.
The event in May at Emersons Green Village Hall aimed to bring people together for nature and environment-focused activities.
It was hosted by the town council’s climate and nature (CAN) group and supported by a team of volunteers.
Town council open spaces committee chair Bobbie Sunderland said: “Our first ideas were the plant and seed swap and the events have developed to include other things related to caring for the earth and the climate. We also want to encourage people to meet up, have a chat and share ideas.”
The hall buzzed with people exchanging plants, seeds, vegetables, herbs, fruits, flowers and gardening tips.
Among the biggest hits was a chicken exhibit, brought by town councillor Kelly Allen, who gave young visitors the chance to pet them and learn more about them when ventured out of their coop.
Visitors also tried a range of activities, from willow weaving with artist Sarah Jayne Edwards to sourdough- making demonstrations with Francesca Payne from the CAN group, who said: “It was lovely to talk to so many enthusiastic people. I’m keen to hold a more in-depth session in the future.”
The CAN group will hold an autumn gathering at the village hall on October 4, which will also feature the town council’s annual photography competition exhibition and prize-giving ceremony.
In the meantime the CAN group is also planning to launch a repair café, where people can bring items like clothing and electrical appliances that need fixing.
Cllr Sunderland said: “We’re currently looking for skilled volunteers in areas like sewing, electrical, or mechanical repairs.
“The goal is to reduce waste, save items from landfill, and encourage a culture of reuse.”