A PLOT of unused land behind Rock Ferry Library has been transformed into a community garden that will officially open today. 

The garden - situated on land behind Rock Ferry Library in Old Chester Road - will be unveiled during an event this afternoon.

It is owned by Wirral Council, but will be run by new social enterprise, 'Grow Sow Well', who will run a volunteering scheme and sessions for the community.

Founder Helen Buckingham, from Bebington, developed the garden after being inspired by a course she attended at The Eden Project.

Wirral Globe:

Helen Buckingham in the community garden today. Picture: Paul Heaps

After four years teaching in local secondary schools, Helen, a former pupil of Bebington High School, decided that she wanted to develop a community resource that would particularly help people with mental health issues, and began looking for a site.

She has already enlisted the help of the Utopia Project, a Wirral alternative education programme for young people struggling with formal education.

Helen said: "We are a new organisation and this is our first project, so we’re really excited. The involvement of The Eden Project is the icing on the cake!

"Our aim is to create community gardens that help increase the physical and mental wellbeing of local people, and bring communities together.

"As a social enterprise, our profits will be reinvested back into our projects to directly benefit the local community."

Other organisations and community leaders involved in the project have included Wirral Council, Birkenhead Constituency Team, and Lairdside Communities Together.

The garden will be officially opened this afternoon with representatives of The Eden Project attending.

The event takes place from 1-4pm. Volunteers and supporters are also invited to attend.

During the afternoon, there will be arts and craft and family activities to enjoy.

Wirral Globe:

Helen Buckingham and Cllr George Davies in the Rock Ferry community garden today. Picture: Paul Heaps

Cllr George Davies, Wirral's cabinet member for neighbourhoods, housing and engagement, said: "The Council has pledged, by 2020, to develop partnerships and embed them across everything we do.

"This project is a fantastic example, and has not only brought an unloved piece of land back into use for the community, it demonstrates that with a shared purpose, we can collectively make a real difference.

"I love the idea that this is being created by the community and will help local people, particularly those with mental health issues.

"The health benefits of gardening are well recognised, with a positive impact on physical, mental and emotional well-being."