Braving torrents of early autumnal rainfall on September 1st, community gardeners and conservationists from around Midlothian made their way to Newton Church in Danderhall to share food, stories, and ideas at the Midlothian Community Garden and Conservation Network Social!
They were joined by our Community Garden Network liaison Corrie, as well as Elli – the Hub’s new Communications and Impact Intern, who both thoroughly enjoyed participating in the passionate conversations surrounding apple pruning, community engagement, and network strengthening. We even got garden tours from Danderhall Urban Gardeners and Newton Church Hutters – special shout out to Ruth’s prize-worthy dahlias!
“What is MCAN’s Community Garden and Conservation Network?” you might ask. The network is a community of 20 local gardeners, growers, and conservationists working to improve spaces in Midlothian and supported by the Hub. The Network exists to inspire cross-pollinating across gardens and greenspaces, circulate ideas about funding and trainings, and create resilience in the wider Midlothian community and ecosystem.
The social began with natter with teas and coffees served by Newton Hutters gardener Erika, , who was a wonderful host. A smorgasbord of delicious soup, pizzas, and desserts followed as more members of the Network arrived and conversations multiplied. Homemade baked goods made with garden fruits sweetened the scene, thanks to Katie from Loanhead Community Gardens (blackcurrant muffins) and Ruth from Danderhall Urban Garden (apple crumble)!
As the Network cracks on with all the work that seasonal change requires, we highlight their efforts and expanding impact this September. Special thanks to the members who came and the gardens they represented:
- Gorebridge Community Garden
- Glencourse Community Garden
- Danderhall Urban Gardeners
- Newton Church Hutters
- Loanhead Community Garden
- Transform Garden
- Midlothian Community Hospital Garden
- Bilston Community Garden
