A charity funded initiative to create a wellbeing garden for staff and patients at Congleton War Memorial Hospital has opened.

The tranquil new green space has been created as part of East Cheshire NHS Charity's Wellbeing Appeal which launched earlier this year to mark the 100th anniversary of the hospital, which has been celebrated throughout 2024.

Thanks to a significant donation from the William Dean Countryside and Educational Trust, the garden was officially opened by staff from the hospital, Chair, Aislinn O'Dwyer, Mayor of Congleton, Kay Wesley and Deputy Lieutenant of Cheshire, Dennis Dunn MBE.

Overseen by Congleton-based gardener Patti Pinto, with help from the local community, work has been taking place on the project which provides a safe and secure environment designed to promote wellness and decrease stress.

Patti said: "I have spoken to a lot of staff, patients and their families and they have loved being able to come out to the garden.

The new garden at Congleton War Memorial Hospital, of Canal Road, CW12 3AR. (Image - East Cheshire NHS Charity)

"The whole point of the garden is to make you feel better, the faster you can feel better, the sooner you can go home.

"It will continue to be a wonderful place to come to, but I must say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped get it complete."

The oval shaped garden, which incorporates a rainbow-coloured theme, includes an orchard on the outer rim with a series of borders, connecting paths, a water fountain and five benches.

Aislinn O'Dwyer, Chair of East Cheshire NHS Trust said: "It's a special day opening this fantastic garden which we know will enhance the lives of patients and their families and of our staff.

"A big thank you to Patti and all the volunteers as the garden would not have been possible without their work and support from the local community and local schools.

"This help is so important as this hospital is part of the community and being able to give in this sort of way is so invaluable."

Healthcare Assistant, Denise Robson works on the Aston Unit at the hospital and added: "It's been lovely to come out to the garden, sit down and be away from the work environment and relax, gather your thoughts and feel refreshed when you go back to work.

"Staff have said how lovely it is to have the garden and be able to come and sit even for five minutes. For me it's made a massive difference." For more information about the garden and the charity appeal, please click here.