Prison plants joy with '˜new' sensory garden

Building on strong community relations already established in the area, Prison Governor David Eagleson generously responded to an appeal from a teacher at Rossmar School to lend a helping hand in the garden project.

Prison gardener Dave Taylor was tasked to craft and develop a small plot of land within the school grounds on Ballyquin Road where special needs pupils could stimulate senses through colour, scents, sounds and touch. Dave said with a few large wooden planters already in place on site, he was able to use them to begin with.

“With permission of the Governor I took a few plants from the prison to create part of the garden - Lavender, Thyme, Sage, Bottle Brush and Rosemary are all ideal plants to stimulate the senses,” said Dave, “and then I added a bird feeder and bird table, some stepping stones and a playscape.

“We plan to help maintain the garden and hopefully next year develop it some more.”

Prison Governor David Eagleson, who visited the garden recently, said: “Magilligan prides itself on being part of the local community.

“I’m delighted we have been able to assist in the building of this new sensory garden. I hope it brings much enjoyment to the many pupils at Rossmar.”

Rossmar Principal, Brian McLaughlin, said: “The new garden has transformed part of the school and created a sensory experience for our pupils which they never had before.”

. I can’t thank enough Magilligan Prison, the Governor and gardener Dave Taylor. Their efforts will bring a lot of enjoyment to all of our 118 pupils.”