The 'hidden gem' offering a place to grow, connect and heal

Kirstie has seen the garden transform since last September From a lifeless strip of grass to a blossoming garden, Annadale Community Centre's grounds have received a glow up over the past year, becoming a "hidden gem" for all to enjoy. The volunteer group has now been recognised for its contribution to the local area, receiving a nomination for the BBC Make a Difference Awards .

Annadale Community Centre Gardening Group meets every Tuesday and will celebrate its first birthday in September. Residents say the space has not only improved the local environment but has also created a welcoming community hub where people can learn new skills, share ideas and support each other through life's challenges.

From a few unwanted containers to a wildlife pond, the area has become a hive of activity Kirstie Rowan has been involved since the beginning and is proud of the journey the group has been on, which has been full of "lovely big changes".

Key Analysis and Detailed Timeline

"We started with the grass, unwanted containers and the polytunnel and now we have all of this – we've got the pond, tree bed and vegetables as well," she explained. "Every week when we come down there's always more growth, more flowers, new flowers, it really is beautiful.

"Some of us don't work so this gets us out of the house weekly and even if we come, we aren't expected to do anything, its just nice to be here with everyone." Fayth enjoys going for coffee with the team after the sessions For Fayth Duffy, being part of the group has been a "game changer" for her after recently moving to the area.

"I was really finding it hard to put down roots and meet friends because when your kids get a bit older you're not meeting the mums at the gate, you're not getting out to the other places such as toddler groups," she stated. "We've all become such good friends, we go for coffee together sometimes afterwards and support each other, we'll ring each other to make sure we are all here." Larry learned skills from his father and enjoys seeing the garden thrive For local resident Larry Andrews the group has been a refuge following the death of his wife last year.

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"I came here for a bit of company, my daughter found it on WhatsApp and I've been coming since September last year," he stated. The 87-year-old former butcher has made new friends through the group. "It's good to meet different people and have a yarn with them… It's amazing the number of people you do find," he added.

Broader Impact and Sector Outlook

Amber wants more people to know about the "hidden gem on the Ormeau Road" Amber Jennings works with the group and is on hand with gardening tips and advice. "It means a lot to be nominated for this award - I feel like this is such a hidden gem on the Ormeau Road for people to retreat to on a Tuesday earlier today and learn how to garden with those in the community," she stated.

The primary goal of the group is to "improve the wellbeing of people in the area". Jennings has seen first hand the difference the garden has made to members. "It's been a really uplifting experience for all involved, having that routine, knowing you're outside and being with people in your community," she added.

Overall winners will be confirmed live on Vinny and Cate's BBC Radio Ulster show on Friday 25 September It is awarded to an individual or group who improve or conserve their local environment. Annadale Community Centre Garden Group is one of four finalists in the category, along with: Daniel McAfee - Ballycastle, a wildlife volunteer and member of the Glens Red Squirrel Group where he shares his knowledge through school visits, talks and guided nature walks Alannah Agnew - Cookstown , a passionate member and chairperson of her school eco team.

She has led assemblies on climate change, littering and healthy eating, while helping her school achieve its sixth Green Flag award Eco Rangers NI - Carrickfergus, a community litter-picking group that clears litter year-round, supports community events and helps young people with awards such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award Overall winners will be confirmed live on Vinny and Cate's BBC Radio Ulster show on Friday 25 September.