Hillbank Nursery and Family Centre kids create own garden area

Jun 12 2009 by Ian Russell, Kilmarnock Standard

CHILDREN at Kilmarnock’s Hillbank Nursery and Family Centre, with a little help from some friends at East Ayrshire Council and East Ayrshire Woodlands, have created their own garden area.

The youngsters, and staff, were joined by invited guests at the garden’s official opening last month.

Parents, carers, staff and the children themselves managed to raise the money to buy materials through fundraising initiatives and individual donations, including one from local community police.

Councillor Iain Linton said: “East Ayrshire Council was delighted to be able to support what is a fantastic learning tool for the children. Everyone involved with making it happen should be very proud and I hope they continue to enjoy it for many years to come.”

The Hillbank garden includes a planted willow fence, a hide for birdwatching and a wet meadow. The centrepiece is a water feature, and pupils from Kilmarnock Academy have made wind chimes to make sure all five senses are stimulated.