TO celebrate 70 years of Methodist Care Homes (MHA) Ty Gwyn in Penarth have created a new garden for the therapeutic benefit of its elderly residents.

The Lord Mayor of Penarth visited the home to declare the garden open on July 1.

The garden has been named ‘The Secret Garden’ because of its secluded location. The idea was first conceived when several residents mentioned how they missed their own gardens and the pleasure they gained from tending them.

Together with the activity staff and the gardening expertise of a family member, the residents themselves became involved in the gardens creation by discussing what they’d like to grow, choosing plants, planting hanging baskets and painting decorative plant pots to provide colour.

The new garden now provides a raised bed for easy reach of planting, several vegetable pots, new patio furniture with parasols and a gazebo for shade, a bright wall mural and lots of tubs of flowers to add colour.

Family members also kindly donated plants and flowers of all varieties. The celebration day also included a 1940’s themed party for the residents, their family and friends, followed by entertainment provided by soloist and trumpeter, Ricky Hunter, who sang songs from the 1940’s era.

A spokesperson said; “There was a great party atmosphere for all.”