About us
Feel part of our diverse community as we share the seasonal changes in our secluded garden
Our history - the beginnings
Erleigh Road Community garden was the brainchild of the vicar of St Luke’s church, Graeme Fancourt, who wanted to create a garden for the community in the unused space behind St Luke’s church hall. It all started in 2015 when the church obtained a grant to clear the unused and overgrown space.
In 2016, Naomi German saw that the garden had been cleared but had yet to get started properly, so she approached the church and offered to help get it going. Naomi worked with Dave Richards from Food4families - a local organisation that seeks to encourage people to grow fruit and vegetables - to plan the site and purchase the plants, tools, shed, water butts and picnic tables using the initial grant. Mary Evans also became involved early on and continues to bake scones and cakes which gardeners enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee at the end of sessions, as well as making preserves using garden produce.
Taking shape
The garden gradually took shape and by early 2017 the garden boasted a pergola which is now covered by our grape vine and an array of beds for growing flowers and vegetables. In addition, fruit trees and soft fruit bushes were planted along the boundary wall and fence on either side of the triangular garden. Our greenhouse was later added, thanks to a generous donation from the Rotary club, and we have a number of picnic tables and a mud kitchen for children.
The regular community garden sessions keep the garden looking good and being productive. We continue to try growing new plants, adding new features such as additional benches and willow fences, and inviting people to come and enjoy this special outdoor space.
Continuing to grow
In order to continue the work of the community garden, Erleigh Road Community Garden became a charity in December 2024. The charity is a member of the Reading Green Wellbeing Network, a network of community and therapeutic gardens in the greater Reading Area that works to promote nature-based activities and the health benefits they provide.
Running the garden is now funded through our open days, which include sales of plants and produce, special events and donations from volunteers and local supporters.
Do help support our aims through coming to enjoy our plant sales and garden open afternoons or consider making a donation.
