A new dementia-friendly sensory garden has been launched at Thurston Library. 

Created by volunteers and funded by Community Infrastructure Levy money via Thurston Parish Council and the Friends of Thurston Library, the new sensory garden has now officially opened. 

The plants and gardening equipment were donated by businesses and individuals and horticultural and construction specialists stepped in to provide their expertise as well.

Group picture of those involved at the openingGroup picture of those involved at the opening (Image: Thurston Library)

The garden, devised and led by Sheila Dawes, vice chair of the Friends of Thurston Library, together with other members of the group, has transformed the library's unused outdoor space to create an area welcoming children and adults alike that centres around the five senses.

Designed to help those with dementia to enjoy it, but also visitors of any age, there is a herb garden for taste and smell, lamb’s ear plants and grasses for touch, a flowing water feature and a bench under a tree so people can sit and enjoy the sounds.

Ellie Longman, library manager at Thurston Library, said: “It has been wonderful seeing the transformation from an unused space into a welcoming, restful, beautiful garden and delightful extension to our friendly library.

"We’re so grateful to all the volunteers who have enthusiastically come forward. They have worked so hard and brought their expertise to the scheme."

Flowers in the new gardenFlowers in the new garden (Image: Thurston Library)

The garden was officially opened at a special event with the chair of Suffolk Libraries, Debra Reay, cutting the ribbon.

Thurston Library is based in Norton Road in Thurston and is open on Tuesdays between 2pm and 6pm, Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm, Thursdays between 2pm and 6pm and Fridays from 10am to 1pm. 

It is also open between 10am and 3pm on Saturdays and Sundays.