A GROUP of volunteers have teamed up to help repair damage to a community garden project.

Voluntary workers from Mind in Furness’ Kitchen Garden Project have come together in restoring the Green Heart Den on Greengate Street following a spate of vandalism.

The den was targeted by vandals three months ago, consequently causing hundreds of pounds of damage.

Most significantly damaged was the project’s polytunnel which may cost up to £700 to replace.

Project manager of the den, Jed Pickersgill, called the incident ‘mindless vandalism’.

He said: “I’m not blaming anyone, these things happen but we’re very grateful that Mind offered to help repair the damage.

“The garden is a great space of inclusion and acceptance so a lot of people rely on it.

“The polytunnel was ripped apart and these don’t come cheap.

“We’re still looking for a sponsor to replace it.”

Mr Pickersgill said the effort to help restore the community den ‘really exemplified the strong community spirit.’

He said: “Everyone loves this garden. The community response to the damage has been fantastic, they’re the glue which holds this town together.”

The den has been open since July 2008, set up as a user friendly green open space in which people can enjoy, relax and possibly take part in a range of activities.

Following the success of the first project, a second similar sized plot of derelict land was developed as a community ‘grow your own’ scheme which includes: 28 raised planters, a poly tunnel, log cabin, planted borders, seating, a small orchard, and a wildlife area.

Joe Wardman, director of Mary Street Arches and Gardens, who own the den, said the project is ‘used by a lot of people in the community.’

He said: “The garden is used as a form of therapy for a lot of people.

“Often people go there who haven’t got their own gardens so it’s a shame to see it damaged.

“It’s great to see volunteers come together to help bring the garden back to its full glory.

“This is why we opened the den in the first place so that people could work together and appreciate the space.

“We’re very grateful for all the work people have put into the den.”

The den is currently in need of gardening tools and equipment. If you would like to make a donation, visit the den on Greengate Street.