Volunteer recognised for transforming garage site into lovely garden

A Failsworth volunteer who helped turn a disused First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) garage site into a community garden is the housing association’s January Hidden Hero.

Ash Efraim had the idea with other residents in 2023 to make the site at Day Drive into a food producing community project. 

Since then, he has been at the forefront of the initiative with support from FCHO, local councillors, Northern Lily, the National Trust and the surrounding community. 

FCHO initially granted the land for three years in 2024 and gave the group £5,000 in grants to help fund the project as part of its commitment to its communities. 

Ash was presented with his certificate and a £50 voucher by FCHO Head of Neighbourhood Care, David Wrigley, on Thursday. 

“Being recognised by FCHO and having all our efforts recognised  simply confirms I am doing a good job for the community and it makes it all worthwhile,” the 35-year-old said. 

“But I couldn’t do what I do without our committee of five dedicated members and many other volunteers who help out throughout the year – absolute credit goes to them.” 

He added: “I’ve been interested in gardening and growing since before I had my own garden. Gardeners always seem to face never having enough space,  so being able to take a site not being used and building a gardening and growing hub there really excited me.” 

Mr Wrigley added: “Ash and his team of committed volunteers have done a tremendous job turning the site in Day Drive into something really special for the whole community to enjoy. 

“He has really been a big driving force in ensuring the project has been an award-winning success. FCHO is proud to have leased the land and supported this initiative. It speaks to our work in the community, and it speaks to a fantastic community spirit in this part of Failsworth. 

 “I had absolutely no hesitation in nominating Ash as our latest Hidden Hero. It’s an award he fully deserves.” 

 Day Drive has featured on the BBC and won a ‘Nominate Your Community Space’ Award. 

Volunteers are currently growing garlic, purple sprouting broccoli and leeks. They have plans to build more raised beds to grow even more vegetables throughout the year.