For the past 15 years, the Ashby Spa WI "Garden Gang" has lovingly cared for the popular garden at the top of Market Street in Ashby de la Zouch.

Together with the nearby Rotary Club Peace Garden, it creates a welcoming entrance to the town and provides a pleasant place for people to sit, meet friends and enjoy the surroundings.

Every Tuesday morning, members of the Garden Gang can be found planting, pruning and maintaining the garden, while also creating seasonal displays throughout the year, including Easter decorations, birds, bees, butterflies, autumn colours, poppies and Christmas themes. All decorations are handmade by members of Ashby Spa WI.

The group is also supported by family members and friends who help with some of the heavier tasks involved in maintaining the garden and installing displays.

The garden was originally planted as a sensory garden by the Lions Club. Around 2009, as the garden matured and required increasing maintenance and replanting, the newly formed Ashby Spa WI took over its care. Since then, members have continued to regularly replant and maintain the area, gradually developing it into the colourful and attractive community space enjoyed today.

The Ashby Spa WI 'Garden Gang' (Photo: Supplied)

Many plants, shrubs and decorations have been donated by WI members and friends over the years. The Town Council supports the project with grass cutting and green waste collection, while local businesses including The Bed Shop and Arthur's Barbers kindly provide water for new plants.

Paddington Bear, installed by BID Ashby, has become a popular attraction in the garden, drawing visitors from across the UK and beyond. Members of the Garden Gang regularly chat with visitors and help take photographs for tourists visiting the town.

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The group says the greatest reward is the many positive comments received from local residents and visitors alike.

As the saying goes, "To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow."