Growing TOGETHER!

Community gardens are as much about people coming together as they are about plants

- ANDREW SHAW

A relaxing summer was top of my list

Monica Straughan, 67, is treasurer of Beautiful Perth. A relaxing summer was at the top of my list when I retired in June 2011 after a career in corporate communications. But a chance meeting with the former chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful led to a position on the committee of Beautiful Perth.

We’re all volunteers and work on a range of projects across the city, with financial support from the council and donations. Last year, we were so proud when Perth was named overall winner of the RHS’ Britain in Bloom. The competition considers how horticulture can be used to improve the wider community as well as the environment. So we tidy derelict areas, have litter-picks, and like to use sustainable planting that encourages pollinators.

We’re particularly proud of our heather garden, with over 500 varieties. And we help maintain a garden where bereaved people can spend quiet time. Most of our volunteers are retired, and enjoy the project’s benefits of exercise, a sense of purpose, and making new friends.