Last week Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust took a small group of the regular contributors from Buzz Community garden on a visit to Open Return - a community garden with a difference.The trip was part of the Days Out By Train project with Severnside Community Rail Partnership, WECA and GWR , and we travelled from Ashley Down Rail Station to Weston Super Mare.

It was the first time the group had used the new station and they were impressed with how easy it was to plan and manage connections, use a variety of entrances depending on what direction you were arriving and how accessible it was.

‘It was good to use the new station and find out where it is’ Pete

The Open Return garden is actually on the rail station platform and we met with Sam and Karen from Grow Feral - the community group who manage the space. We had a tour and a great chat about common themes and were impressed with what they have achieved so far. We also had a sneak preview of their wonderful new Biophilia exhibition by mantramurals.

We were able to share good practice, learning and top tips and update on what has been achieved at Buzz Community garden.

‘This has been a really nice visit, meeting new people, connecting with another community garden and comparing and sharing’ Jordan

We finished the trip with a visit to the beach and lunch, rounding off an enjoyable day together, which encompassed sustainable travel, keeping active in winter and connecting our community through growing and learning.