PARKLEA ‘branched out’ to the community by hosting its first summer celebration.

The fete was held for and partly organised by the people who attend the horticultural initiative.

More than 100 adults with learning disabilities go along to the Parklea Project every week and staff wanted to throw a party for them and their families.

Sharon Gemmell, project manager of Parklea Branching Out, said: “This was our first summer event for our service users, their families, carers and groups who use the service to give them something back. They also helped to organise the day.” There were visits from companies who brought a selection of owls and small animals and there was even a Shetland pony from Lamont Farm.

Home-grown fruit and vegetables were also up for grabs from stalls at the event.

Sharon stressed the benefits of horticulture and describes Parklea as “an accessible space with a nice environment.” She said: “Horticulture has social and theraputic qualities which allows us to engage with our client group.” Organisers also added a sporting theme to tie in with the ‘Have a Field Day’ event run by Fields In Trust.

Sharon said: “We wanted it to be a fun and relaxing event and we were able to learn from it.

“The weather was good which helped. It was a fantastic day.

“It also gave the community the opportunity to see Parklea and the opportunities we provide for service users.” Bosses say the day proved a great success and hope to build on this.

Sharon told the Telegraph: “We hope to make it an annual event based on the success of our summer event which has raised Parklea’s profile. We are now planning a Christmas fayre.” The charity is open to individuals and groups and also runs an employability programme for young long-term unemployed.

See today's Tele for full pictures.