A community-led planting day at Victoria Park has brought together residents of all ages after volunteers stepped in to save the park’s flowerbeds from going unplanted this year.
Friends of Victoria Park organised the event on Wednesday, joined by Barry Rotary Memory Café, local volunteers, and pupils from Cadoxton Primary School. The group has taken on responsibility for planting and watering the beds after council funding for the displays was withdrawn.
Despite the challenge, the community rallied. Through small donations, support from local businesses, and fundraising efforts, the group raised £95 and received a large number of donated plants—enough to fill the beds for the summer season.
Organisers said the day was about far more than gardening. Children worked side by side with older residents, sharing stories and learning new skills as they planted flowers that would grow throughout the year. Volunteers said the mix of generations created a warm atmosphere and helped strengthen community ties.
Jim Thomson, one of the volunteers, shared memories of Victoria Park from half a century ago, recalling how the flowerbeds were once a focal point for visitors who would sit and enjoy the surroundings. His reflections, organisers said, were a reminder of why maintaining the park’s green spaces still matters today.
Friends of Victoria Park said the event highlighted the wider benefits of community involvement—from reducing vandalism by encouraging a sense of ownership, to improving wellbeing by spending time outdoors.
A spokesperson for the group said on social media extended thanks to everyone who donated plants, money, or time, including individuals, local businesses, and anonymous supporters. Donors included B & M Barry Waterfront, Tesco Extra Culverhouse Cross, The Fruit Shack, Pughs Garden Village, The Living Room, Thystle and Bean, and many more.
Volunteers hope the planting day will be the first of many community activities aimed at caring for the park.
Anyone interested in getting involved with Friends of Victoria Park can email Friendsofvictoriaparkbarry@gmail.com.
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