Green-fingered volunteers sought

Sir, Many of your readers may not know of Friends of Montrose House Association which is a group whose basic aims are to enhance the quality of life for the residents and day care visitors at Montrose House and to provide them with resources, facilities, services and equipment.

Over the years they have visited regularly to provide the residents with companionship, join in with activities, organise and assist at social events, fundraise, and help to maintain the gardens.

Recent purchases include a Samsung tablet with speakers so that residents can Skype their families on the mainland and download music. Staff have used the device to photograph events for a gallery of memories. The friends also commissioned photos of Arran views on boards from Arran Graphics which are now brightening up the corridors and they have bought quantities of bulbs and planted them in pots for the garden. Future events that they will help with are the Hallowe’en party, Christmas party and Scots night.

The Friends are a dwindling group and could do with some more people to join them, all that is required is the occasional hour for a visit, or to help at social events but most especially some help with the garden.

Those of you who have visited the home may have been aware that what was originally a beautifully laid out and well stocked garden has now become very untidy and overgrown due to lack of maintenance. The work required is way beyond what the few friends can provide on their own so we would be grateful for any help. A few hours of weeding and or bulb planting could make the gardens much more pleasant for the residents and visitors. Anyone who could offer some time would be very welcome. Gardening skills are not necessary, hopefully we can get a small team together.

To find out more just contact the staff at Montrose House or myself.

Yours,

Alison Keir Brodick