Alpacaly Ever After launches fur-tastic community garden

Alpacaly Ever After CIC launched the community-centred project at their North Lakes Basecamp, located near the A66 between Keswick and Penrith, on Wednesday (August 9) for the first time. 

Emma Kate Smalley, managing director at Alpacaly Ever After, said: "We had such a great first day on Wednesday. The group achieved so much. 

"They were so busy chatting, shovelling and planting that we had to bully them into taking a tea and cake break," she said. 

The garden's inaugural day saw remarkable achievements as participants enthusiastically created four no-dig beds from scratch.

Volunteers get to work in community garden (Image: Alpacaly Ever After)

The volunteers, led by the sanctuary's team coordinator, Mel, also had the pleasure of planting fresh kale, generously donated by the nearby Lingholm Estate.

"They are such a lovely bunch ranging from local guest house owners to retired paramedics, and the atmosphere on Wednesday was so friendly and so much fun.

"It was great to get to know everyone, hear everyone’s stories and learn from their gardening experience," she said.

The community garden is set to welcome volunteers every Tuesday and Wednesday, offering regular opportunities for participants to lend their time and expertise.

Volunteers create four no-dig beds from scratch (Image: Alpacaly Ever After)

The project aims to teach new skills, support wildlife, promote a sustainable lifestyle, and contribute to the overall environmental friendliness of a community.

The sanctuary is actively seeking more individuals to join the community effort.

Additionally, they are open to collaboration with companies interested in sponsoring the garden, supporting the growth of a thriving communal space.

Those interested in joining can visit Basecamp North Lakes, or alternatively, contact Alpacaly Ever After via email at info@alpacalyeverafter.co.uk or phone at 017687 78328.