VOLUNTEERS have started to give Heathfield Community Centre a little TLC, including a green makeover and new link to Zimbabwe.

The team has already cleared a site where rotten fencing will be replaced by a native hedge, planted in partnership with nearby St Catherine’s C of E Primary School.

The centre’s admin team is supportive and is hoping to create a raised bed where pupils and their families can grow fruit and vegetables.

The project is being led by retired Bovey Tracey couple Jane Tarr and Nick Clough whose not-for-profit group, Trees of Hope, was co-founded in 2018 with Kennedy Tafara Chinyere at his home in Zimbabwe.

He settled in the UK nine years ago but still directs Trees of Hope’s work in Africa.

Their CIC organisation helps disadvantaged communities in in Zimbabwe with a plant nursery to replace lost forestry

Seeing the social and ecological benefits in Africa, Jane and Nick wanted to achieve something similar closer to home.

A conversation with County Councillor Sally Morgan soon had them homing in on Heathfield Community Centre.

‘It’s just the beginning, there’s a big job to do and we want to do that with the community’s involvement,’ said Jane, a former teacher trainer.

‘Nick and I know from our careers that involving schoolchildren can lead to their families coming on board and that’s what we’d like to see happening.

‘St Catherine’s is one of four schools we’re working with and we look forward to developing our relationship with them and the wider Heathfield community.’

Bovey Tracey Town Council ward member for Heathfield, Cllr Hannah Mills-Brown, said: ‘It’s wonderful Trees of Hope has turned its attention to our community centre and we hope everyone really enjoys getting involved.’

Fellow ward member, Cllr Lisa Robillard-Webb, added: ‘The town council has already said improving facilities in Heathfield is a priority and this is a great start from an organisation we’re proud to partner with.’

Anyone wanting to get involved can email [email protected].