Torrisholme neighbours band together to keep village green looking smart during lockdown

A retired Torrisholme resident has joined together with neighbours to help keep the village green in pristine condition during lockdown.
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Frank Gretton and the other residents have been mowing the grass at Torrisholme Square, as well as looking after the plants.

They have borrowed equipment including a powered lawnmover to cut the grass, after Frank initially started cutting the grass by hand with shears.

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"When lockdown began the grass was getting long, but the council said they didn't have the staff to do it," the 77-year-old said. "Torrisholme Square is a big area but I started to cut it myself with a pair of shears.

FrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin StuttardFrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
FrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard

"I was bored stuck indoors and I didn't like seeing the grass getting higher and higher.

"Someone then knocked at my door and said he would help me, and we ended up with eight volunteers.

"We have now got hold of two lawnmowers as well.

"We have been keeping the roses tidy and have put wild flowers on one of the beds, and we cut the grass every other week. We also painted the benches."

FrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin StuttardFrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
FrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
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However, one issue which has caused a problem for the group is disposing of the grass cuttings. None of the residents have a green wheelie bin of their own, and Frank said the city council has so far not been able to help.

They have been given disposable paper bags, but were then told these also needed to be placed in a green bin for removal.

"We have had trouble getting rid of the cuttings," Frank said. "We couldn't get anyone from the council to take it and we don't have a green bin to put it in."

In June, councillors asked for help from the public in keeping the community neat and tidy during lockdown.

FrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin StuttardFrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
FrankGretton and other residents have been mowing the grass and looking after the flowers at TorrisholmeSquare. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
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"We have been doing our bit like we've been asked to do," Frank said. "We just need a bit of help from the council."

A Lancaster City Council spokesman said: “Mr Gretton and his neighbours are doing a great job and we’d love to speak to them about how we can support their work.

"They’re part of a growing band of local people who are working hard to improve their areas and we’re very grateful to them all.

"Any individuals or groups that need advice or support on how they can do the same can get in touch with us by emailing [email protected].”

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