Milton Keynes businesses help create therapy garden for cancer patients

Businesses in MK have teamed up to create a stress reducing courtyard gardens outside the Macmillan Cancer Chemotherapy facilities at MK Hospital.

When volunteers Richard Freeman and Jaff Newton, both keen gardeners, looked at tackling a makeover for the courtyard gardens they realised they needed help.

Philanthropist Amy Smart of Benchmarx Joinery based in Milton Keynes rallied everything needed, working closely with Richard and Jaff.

Amy’s fiancé, who works for Travis Perkins in Bletchley also helped.

Together they organised lorry loads of everything from astroturf to paving slabs to bedding plants and even small trees – all donated by their colleagues and local Travis Perkins suppliers.

“This is a great team of customers and colleague support,” said Amy.

“All workers were asked once and did not hesitate; they have all been incredible.

“I have raised money for various cancer charities since my teens, breast cancer support, cancer research, leukaemia and lymphoma research.

“Now again this year as well as raising money for Macmillan I wish to work to support everyone affected by cancer in MK hospital.”

Dan Rogers, one of the voulnteers said: “Macmillan means a lot to me because of the care they provide to patients is always world class and the nurses always make you feel so welcome.

“Having this garden redone will hopefully make everyone’s lives a little bit happier.”

Participating donors and workers for the garden project include Prestige Lawns, M Buck & Son Landscape, Nears Group, Woodlands Business Park, Hunters Farm Shop, Dobbies Garden Centre community team, Benchmarx, Travis Perkins, Travis Perkins Tool Hire, local charity Box Garden and Natural Paving.

Photos by Jane Russell