Wakefield Hospice is on the look-out for local volunteers with a horticultural leaning to help maintain its beautiful gardens so that patients, as well as their family and friends, can continue benefitting from the peace and tranquillity they provide during what can be the most difficult of times. The Aberford Road hospice provides palliative care for on average 250 patients every year; ranging from day patients to those receiving end of life care. Its 3.2 acres gardens are extensively used and their maintenance is an extremely rewarding task. Helen Knowles, director of income generation at Wakefield Hospice, said: “The beauty of volunteering is that it’s open to anyone; whether individuals or businesses; and by sharing just a little time anyone can make a huge difference. And with our gardens it’s a chance to get outside and do some work where the fruits – or should that be flowers? – of your labours are easy to see and can be enjoyed by everyone.” For anyone with greenfingers and time to spare, or someone who simply loves being outdoors and can spare a few hours a month to help out in Wakefield Hospice’s garden, they should call Debra Jukes on 01924 331400 or send an email to debra.jukes@wakefieldhospice.co.uk. “I’m hopeful we can get a small team of volunteers who can work together to maintain the gardens, as it may prove a bit too much for just one person,” added Helen. “In fact, it may be the perfect opportunity for a local business looking to for its staff to do some CSR work in the community.” Helen continued: “The gardens are for our patients and their families, as well as our staff and volunteers. Gardening is a humbling experience and gives so much pleasure and to quote Audrey Hepburn ‘to plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”