So many volunteers came to help with the latest stage of the refurbishment of the Sandy Park in Balgillo on Saturday that some enthusiasts had to be turned away as there were no more trees left to plant.
Amanda Burnett, whose daughter Kristie (12) has been the guiding light of the park’s transformation, said she was “surprised and delighted” at the turnout.
“It went tremendously well,” she said. “It was freezing and snowing and we were worried because of the horrible weather that no one would turn up.
“We had over 350 trees to plant and the turn out was slow to start with but by the end we had to turn people away because we ran out of trees. The trees will screen the play area and make it as safe as possible.”
The event was a real community effort, attracting all ages, she went on.
“The kids were fantastic. They seemed to really enjoy taking part and getting their hands dirty, but it was great to see all ages there.
“Grannies were digging, two-year-olds planting and two people came to plant a tree in memory of someone. It was a really lovely community event.”
Another 100 trees will be planted at the park by Forthill Primary pupils, who raised £150 for the project.
Kristie started her Friends of Sandy Park campaign three years ago. It has since received funding from the National Lottery and M&S.