Dodford charity opens new sensory garden for youngsters (From Bromsgrove Advertiser)

Dodford charity opens new sensory garden for youngsters

3:20pm Thursday 4th October 2012 in News

A DODFORD charity, offering holidays in the countryside to disadvantaged youngsters, has opened its newest attraction.

Dodford Children’s Holiday Farm provides week-long breaks in the country for children, and their families, from inner city areas and schools.

Hundreds of children visit the Warbage Lane-based farm annually, taking part in activities including feeding and looking after the farm animals.

Life longer supporter of the farm, the late Kate Charity - whose mother Lucy was a co-founder of the farm in 1951 - left money in her will to fund a sensory garden.

Her dream has now become a reality and on Saturday, (September 29), Kate’s daughter, Ruth, helped officially open the new facility.

Funding was also received from other charitable trusts, including the Four Winds Trust which was represented at the event by Jane Cadbury.

The sensory garden features running water, plants and herbs, multi surfaces and seating areas that help to provide a sensory opportunity and a welcome respite from city life, particularly for children with special needs.

Ruth said the garden was a fitting tribute to her mother and grandmothers’ dedication to the farm, over the past 60 years.

For more details on the farm call 01527 878245 or visit dodfordfarm.co.uk.