Discovering a hidden garden in Layton

Massive thanks to Layton Library manager Jane Berry and ward councillors Kath Benson and John Boughton for inviting me to the opening of Layton Hidden Garden this week.

I was honoured to be asked to cut the ribbon to officially open the fantastic new green space and community garden alongside families from the local community. It was a special moment for me – I grew up in Layton, visiting this library, and my parents still live there now. It's great to see that the community continues to thrive!

The Hidden Garden is now open and accessible to the public. Situated at the back of the Library, it was the brain child of Jane who put her long held ambition to transform a patch of unused grass into a haven for wildlife and a lovely place to relax. It was funded by local businesses and councillors, and the work was carried out by the Prince’s Trust. The beautiful murals were made by art students at Blackpool Sixth Form.

Layton Library also offers workshops including sensory play for preschool children, family board games, social groups to pop in and have a brew, and local councillor drop-ins every first Saturday of the month between 10:30 and 11:30 for residents to have their say on local issues.

With councillors John Boughton and Kath Benson and library manager Jane Berry.

For a full list of what is available, visit www.blackpool.gov.uk/libraries or email layton.library@blackpool.gov.uk.