A LONDON Nissan dealership has given a helping hand to a green-fingered community group.
The Penge Green Gym Community Group has been working voluntarily at Winsford Gardens for six years but the space, just off Croydon Road, was hidden away from view and underused.
So, neighbouring Nissan dealership Ancaster stepped in to help put the gardens in the spotlight, and sponsored bright and breezy signage at the gates to welcome new visitors.
Mick Gallard, Nissan Group Sales Development Manager, said: “Nissan has a clear and focused mission for zero emissions on our roads but we at Ancaster wanted to show our commitment to other environmental projects as well. The work of the green gym at Winsford Gardens is really important for our community and for the area — green space is vital for health and nature.
“We hope the new signage helps draw more people into the gardens so they can enjoy its tranquillity and beauty.”
Keith Rodwell, vice-chairman of the group, which is also known as the Friends of Winsford Gardens, said: “We rely on donations, grants and fundraising to maintain and improve the park so support such as this is so welcome and we are very grateful to Ancaster for their sponsorship.
“We look forward to seeing their staff enjoy the gardens particularly during the summer months.”
The Penge Green Gym is one of hundreds of Green Gyms around the country, which operate volunteer gardening sessions to promote the health of users and the local environment. It meets every Wednesday at Winsford Gardens, from 11am to 2pm.
The group is also currently in the running for a grant through Tesco’s Bags of Help scheme, where customers use tokens they get when they shop to vote for one of three community projects. Up to £5,000 is available.
