Summer has drawn to a close in the Muddy Fork garden, with only a few late crops left to harvest. Retford’s Gardening for Wellbeing charity has now turned its attention to the winter maintenance programme – tidyingup, repairing and topping up raised beds, tackling brambles, and bringing the garden back under control. A major part of this work involves installing a new (supposedly) rabbitproof fence to replace the previous one, which had become too damaged to keep the persistent Muddy Fork rabbits at bay. The fencing materials were kindly provided by the Breedon Group, who operate locally but brought together volunteers from across the region to help complete the project. Under the leadership of Barry Ward, Breedon’s Area Production Manager, the fence was erected over two days and is already making a huge difference to the garden. Support from local businesses plays a vital role in keeping Muddy Fork running. This help comes in many forms, and the team would greatly appreciate further offers of garden volunteering from companies. Rose, the General Manager, is also currently collecting raffle prizes for the annual Muddy Fork seasonal raffle – including vouchers or items of any kind – and would be delighted to hear from any local businesses willing to contribute. Volunteers have also been busy preparing honey from the Muddy Fork bees, as well as jams and chutneys made from garden produce. These, along with raffle tickets, crafts and festive wreaths, will be on sale at the Christmas stall in the foyer of the Idle Valley Visitor Centre between Monday 24th November and Friday 12th December, open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10.30am to 2.30pm. The raffle and stall provide valuable income to support Muddy Fork’s free services, so every purchase makes a difference.
Visitors are welcome to drop by the Muddy Fork garden or find out more at http://www.muddyfork.uk. To make a referral, volunteer, or offer a donation, contact Rose, General Manager, at rose.muddyfork@outlook.com.