A HOYLAND woman has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award for the maintenance and upkeep of a community garden.

Alison Richardson, who runs Owd Martha’s Yard which sits behind the Belmont Working Men’s Club on West Street has been put forward for an award in the Community Group category.

The yard is open to everyone to go along and enjoy its beauty, peacefulness and produce and is maintained purely on the generosity of volunteers who work together to make sure that the garden is a place for all to enjoy.

Coun Andy Wray, who represents the Rockingham ward, nominated Alison for ‘being the engine’ behind the group and organising a variety of events throughout the year.

He said: “The group has a big plot of land that they keep in good condition.

“People can visit and sit and enjoy some food or have a picnic.

“She’s helped by a loyal few volunteers however she is the engine behind it all. At Christmas she organised a Christmas parade around Hoyland, I played Father Christmas.

“She also organises bonfire nights and Easter parades.”

Speaking of the nomination, Alison said: “It has definitely come as a surprise I never expected to be nominated. When I was told by the person who’s put me forward, I felt very humbled and appreciative.

“I’m not entirely sure what I’ve been nominated for, I volunteer at Owd Martha’s but do other things as well.

“Being part of the yard is a reward in itself we’ve created a little community garden that’s become a little green haven in our town.”