Lottery cash pays for access to Lilliesleaf green

A community greenspace in a Borders village which has proven to be a vital resource throughout the pandemic will now see more people able to access it.

The Leaf Green project in Lilliesleaf used to be a sheep field, but has been transformed by volunteers in the community to hold events. It has been well used during the pandemic for walks and picnics, playing sports or enjoying the nature and the view of the Eildon Hills.

It hasn’t been easy to access for some, but that's about to change, following a £7,000 award from the People’s Postcode Lottery.

Leaf Green chairman, local artist Rob Hain, said: “Leaf Green has been a vital part of the community during the pandemic and has brought us closer together as a community.

Leaf Green chairman Rob Hain joins the work party on preparing the new entrance.

"There was only one downside – the lack of accessibility for buggies, the visually impaired and those with disabilities.

"We are so grateful to the Peoples Postcode Lottery for this funding and support to help us make this space usable for all. We look forward to the summer when we can safely host community events and enjoy this space fully.”

The money has funded the purchase of a small adjoining piece of land which will make it much easier for everyone in the village to access the green as the original entrance was down a steep bank. Volunteers have spent hours tidying it up and getting it ready for use.

More events are planned as Scotland moves further out of lockdown, including its first wedding at the end of June.

Follow Leaf Green on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LeafGreenLilliesleaf/.