The Green Patch community garden hosts BBC Children in Need challenge

We were thrilled to welcome the Northamptonshire leg of BBC Children in Need’s Three-Legged Challenge to The Green Patch recently.

The event was part of an ambitious 1,000-mile nationwide challenge across BBC local radio stations, which saw presenters and community members tie themselves together at the ankle to walk over 25 miles across their regions.

Over 100 people took part in the Northamptonshire event, with day two of the walk beginning and ending at The Green Patch in Kettering. Our 2.5 acre garden offers local people, schools and community groups the chance to experience the wellbeing effects of being outdoors, whilst learning new skills such as growing and cooking fresh produce. Supported by our Youth Team, the garden also provides alternative provision for children who need additional support, offering a calm space away from the classroom to learn and explore the natural world.

Being part of the day held special significance for us, as we have previously benefitted from Children in Need funding ourselves.

Kimberley Lawson, Operations Director of Groundwork Northants, who run The Green Patch said: “Hosting the challenge was incredibly meaningful for us. As an organisation that has benefitted from Children in Need funding, we understand first-hand the life-changing impact this charity has on communities.”

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, 70-year-old Green Patch volunteer Nigel completed the entire 25 mile distance, embodying the determination and compassion of our Kettering community.

Speaking live on air to BBC’s Annabel Amos before the walk set off, Nigel said: “I have worked at The Green Patch for over 16 years – first as a gardener, and more recently as a volunteer – there is no place I would rather be. To be able to support this brilliant event and welcome everyone to the garden is a joy. It’s one of Kettering’s hidden gems and we couldn’t be more proud of it.”

Kimberley added: “Our work is all about nurturing young people – giving them access to nature, teaching them valuable skills, and providing a safe space for those who need it most. Children in Need is a cause close to our hearts and to open our doors to them was really special.”

The national 1,000 mile Three-Legged Challenge raised vital funds for BBC Children in Need, supporting projects across the UK that help children and young people facing disadvantage and discrimination.