The courtyard after the renovations
- The courtyard after the renovations
A group of young people from Alun High School in Mold has won an award after transforming a derelict courtyard into a seaside paradise.
Celia Jenkins JP, High Sheriff of Clwyd handed out the John Muir Award to pupils aged 11-18 at the school on Monday 25 November.
The pupils volunteered their time over the summer holidays to take part in the project, an environmental prize to encourage people of all backgrounds to connect to, enjoy and care for wild places.
The group carried out conservation work by litter picking and clearing neglected areas and explored wild places including Talacre Beach, Mostyn Gardens, Greenfield Valley Heritage Park and Dyseth Waterfall.
Drawing on their inspiration from these visits they designed the project alongside programme leader Dawn Ashton from Flintshire Sorted, the Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Team.
Using predominantly recycled materials the young people planned and produced a seaside themed area with the help of local artist James Tipping to renovate the courtyard at the Flintshire Sorted team’s office in Buckley.
The area contains an herb garden, water feature and seated area and is used by the Flintshire Sorted team to host group sessions, interviews and alternative therapies.
Councillor Chris Bithell, Cabinet Member for Lifelong Learning said:
“These young people have given their time to create a wonderful space inspired by nature and using their own ideas and hard work. They fully deserve the awards given to them and I hope it motivates them to carry on helping the community.”
Colin Ellis, Assistant Headteacher, Alun School said:
“We’re very pleased our students have been recognised for their voluntary work within the community. These awards make a positive impact on students and encourages them to do more to help.”
Flintshire Sorted would like to thank Wickes, Alison Roberts (Business, support and communities), Jill Bandford (FLVC), Mark Jones (Police) and Steve Robertson (Communities First) for their support at various stages of the project and special thanks to James Tipping (artist) for his commitment throughout.
