The Friends of Maghull and District, a proud member of TCV’s Community Network, have been making a lasting impact on local green spaces through their ongoing environmental efforts. Over the past few years, the group has received several deliveries of trees from the I Dig Trees initiative, helping to transform areas like Rowland’s Dell and Bobbies Wood into thriving community spaces.
This was recognised this month with their win of BBC’s The One Show and RHS’s Growing Together competition!
Rowland’s Dell, a small but significant plot of land adjacent to Maghull Medical Centre, holds a rich history as it was once a sandstone quarry, with its stone used in some of Maghull’s oldest buildings. Today, thanks to the dedication of Friends of Maghull and District, the site is being lovingly restored and reimagined.
After removing 300 bags of litter and 25 tonnes of debris, the TCV team helped the group create a bog garden, a challenging feat given the record-breaking dry conditions and the lining of flower and shrub beds with locally sourced sandstone blocks. A charming wishing well now stands as a centrepiece, adding a touch of magic to the space.
Much of the planting has been made possible through generous donations from local residents and businesses, reflecting the strong community spirit that drives the project. The group has also actively engaged with schools, youth groups, community organisations, and individuals, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the local environment.
With continued support and collaboration, Friends of Maghull and District are not only preserving the area’s heritage but also cultivating a greener, more connected future for everyone.
The group and some of the TCV Merseyside team were part of the celebrations and filming for the BBC and appeared on both The One Show and Morning Live to talk about the impact they’ve had on the local community. View the episode here and head to 10:44.
The judges comments included being impressed by the group “managing to balance restoration and biodiversity while offering the nearby health centre a place to encourage its staff and patients a place to explore for their wellbeing.”
One volunteer describes their win and the impact of having a green space like this: “It’s like winning the gold medal. I was in hospital for a while and then when I came out and came through here, I’d sit here with a cup of tea. It’s tranquil, brilliant!”
TCV Senior Project Officer, Neil McMahon, said: “Working with The Friends of Maghull and District over the past few years has been a pleasure. The dedication and enthusiasm of the group has paid off by winning the BBC’s “Growing Together” award, which they really deserving of. They are a force for nature and the community.”
Keep up to date with the latest news and activities from The Conservation Volunteers by following us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, BlueSky and YouTube.
You can also sign up to receive TCV’s Greenzine e-newsletter for more ways to get involved.
TCV is active across most of the UK: Click here to find your nearest office or activity!