Whitby YHA seeks volunteer gardeners to join team
The gardeners at the Whitby Youth Hostel are looking for new volunteers to help them.
The gardens at Whitby’s prestigious youth hostel are one of the town’s hidden gems, stretching behind the hostel – complete with views of Whitby Abbey – and open weekly for visitors as well as
being available all year for the guests at the hostel to enjoy.
A lawned area provides space for children to play; fruit, flower and herb gardens are a delight for the eye, as well as attracting bees, butterflies and moths; a wildflower area encourages diversity.
All the planting and maintenance is carried out by a small team of volunteers, who work every Wednesday in all but the very worst weather to keep the gardens looking at their best.
The YHA provides funds for new plants and equipment, but the gardeners also run a small plant stall, with donations from the public all being returned to benefit the garden.
Jam, marmalade and chutney are also available to buy, while the garden’s quince tree provides the fruit for quince cheese and jelly.
The lunchtime cup of tea or coffee in the hostel’s café is a chance to catch up, while visitors to the garden often stop for a chat.
Anyone who likes gardening is welcome to join the team on Wednesdays.
The hours worked can be chosen to suit the individual, and tasks can be chosen to suit ability as well.
People interested in joining the volunteer team should contact Penny Ellis at the hostel by emailing [email protected] or go to have a look around and a chat with the team on any Wednesday.