TV presenter Katie Rushworth joined Silsden's Mayor and MP at the official opening of a new community orchard at the town's fire station.
Until recently, the space at the fire station wasn't being used and was just covered in grass. But thanks to firefighters, it has been transformed into a thriving space full of produce.
Carrots, onions, strawberries, radishes, cherries and brussels sprouts are all growing happily alongside a herb patch containing mint, oregano, parsley and chives.
Katie said: “It’s been fantastic to officially open this allotment and orchard at Silsden Fire Station. The work that the firefighters have done to provide this asset for the community has been incredible and I’ve heard how the community has pitched in to help make this project a success.
“It’s wonderful to hear how local people have donated items, such as plants and equipment, that have helped transform this area into a truly unique space that can be enjoyed for many years to come.”
Dom Creed, watch manager at Silsden Fire Station, said they were thrilled that around 50 people turned up to the opening on Friday 21st July, including local MP Robbie Moore and Silsden’s Mayor Mags Croft.
He said: “It’s fantastic to have so much support from the community, as well as from our fire service – without them none of this would have been possible. The feedback we had from everyone was amazing, saying they were impressed with the gardens, which are a valuable asset to the people of Silsden.
“It was also great to hear that Katie thought we had done a really good job – her feedback as an expert gardener was invaluable.”
Keighley and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore said: "It was brilliant to attend the official opening of Silsden’s community orchard which has been lovingly and carefully pulled together under the leadership and watchful eye of Silsden Fire Station’s watch manager Dom Creed.
"Former grassland at the rear of Silsden’s Fire Station has been transformed by our mighty Silsden Fire Station team along with the help of the community, including People First Keighley and Craven to grow a vast range of fruit and veg.
"Dom and his whole team have done an incredible job and I can’t thank him and his team enough for this fantastic community contribution."
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