ALLEN’S Cross Community Garden project manager Jackie Careless has been awarded a BEM for her services to the community in Northfield.
Her charity, Allens Cross Community Association, grows produce and supplies local people with baskets of fresh vegetables.
The 57-year-old set up the Grow Your Own Project, which gave out over 300 growing kits, more than 120 plants and organic vegetables to the community.
The garden opened seven years ago and provides a green space where people can unwind and take a break from everyday stresses.
It currently has 26 volunteers aged 18 and older, who learn how to care for plants and wildlife.
They also take part in weed clearing, sweeping paths and beekeeping.
Jackie has transformed the space along with her volunteers, which was unused and a hotspot for anti-social behaviour but has become a thriving community area.
The group distributed grow packets and fresh food to many members of the local community during lockdown.
Jackie said: “It was a wonderful surprise to receive the BEM, I have to admit I was overwhelmed.
“This award belongs to the volunteers I work with – I am beyond proud of the community that we have here.
“This award helps to draw attention to the community and shines a light on all of the work they do.”
