The idea for our community garden had its ‘roots’ in the Incredible Edible movement which started in Todmorden in 2008 (although we are not affiliated to Incredible Edible).
In 2019, Reeth Medical Centre very kindly—and enthusiastically—endorsed the idea and welcomed the construction of some ‘raised beds’ made from pallet collars in an unused area of its garden.
Although the following couple of years were, of course, challenging as a result of Covid, we managed to keep growing; and in 2024, we started a collaboration with Reeth Primary School, whose children now tend two of the beds.
The idea is that anyone can sow, plant and harvest produce. (In reality it tends to be a small group who sow and plant, but happily more are willing to harvest)! To date, this has included: herbs, salad leaves, radish, beans, courgettes, potatoes, berries.
We try to garden as ‘sustainably’ and organically as possible. If we use shop bought compost it is peat free (although we recognise this is not always without issues) and we try to use as much of our own garden compost, plus garden compost donated by volunteers and supporters, as possible
Getting involved
Anyone is welcome to pop along to the Community Garden and have a look. During the growing season, you are invited to plant something where there is space (please label!); and when there is something ready to harvest, please go ahead and take what you need.
We try to keep the board at the entrance to the garden updated with what is growing currently, and what is ripe for the picking.
Want to get involved with ongoing watering and other maintenance tasks? Please email info@sustainableswaledale.org for further information. Or get in touch via our Sustainable Swaledale Facebook page.
The community garden project has been supported by the Reeth Medical Centre and funding provided by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund. This fund is open to individuals, businesses, community groups or voluntary sector bodies. It provides an accessible source of money for a range of projects that result in positive benefits for the National Park’s environment, economy and communities, while enhancing and conserving local culture, wildlife and landscape. www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/sdf
