A COMMUNITY garden in Jaywick has celebrated another successful year at its annual open day.
Dig4 Jaywick Community Garden welcomed visitors, residents and organisations on Tuesday, July 14.
The afternoon showcased the work which has gone into turning the site into a thriving green space at the heart of the community.
The garden, located behind Jaywick Sands Enterprise Centre on Lotus Way, has been taking shape since 2011 and now features raised beds, glasshouses, and a welcoming shelter.
Gina Placey, councillor responsible for partnerships at Tendring Council, said: "It was great to see so many people come together to celebrate what has been achieved at Dig4Jaywick.
"The garden has become a place where people can learn practical skills, meet others, and take pride in a space that belongs to the community.
"That is what makes projects like this so important – they bring people together and support wellbeing in a very practical, positive way."
Owned by Tendring Council, the garden is maintained by volunteers, with additional support from students at Colchester Institute, Market Field College and Lapwing Education.
This year’s open day featured stalls from Beth Chatto Gardens, beekeepers from the area, and Jaywick Martello Tower crafts, offering visitors insight into the wider network supporting the garden.
Attendees could also learn about the project’s referral system and horticultural course, both designed to help residents gain confidence, develop new skills, and enjoy time outdoors.
Barry Shimell, chairman of Dig4 Jaywick, said: "The open day is always a special moment for us because it lets people see how much work goes into the garden throughout the year.
"We are very grateful to our volunteers, supporters, and everyone who came along to spend time with us.
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"Dig4 Jaywick is open to anyone who wants to get involved, whether they have gardening experience or simply want to be part of something positive in Jaywick Sands."
The project continues to demonstrate the value of community-led green spaces and the positive impact they can have on wellbeing and neighbourhood pride.
More information about Dig4 Jaywick can be found at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/content/dig4-jaywick-community-garden.
