VISION IMPAIRED GARDENING ENTHUSIASTS ENJOY PRIVILEGED ACCESS TO FAMOUS WEST NORFOLK GARDENS

A group of more than 40 vision impaired gardening enthusiasts were treated to a special sensory visit of Gayton Hall Gardens, with the chance to touch and smell the huge variety of plants, and hear the history of the gardens and Hall during a special guided walk.

The trip, organised by sight loss charity Vision Norfolk in conjunction with Gayton Hall, was part of the charity’s extensive programme of leisure activities aimed at tackling the social isolation which sight loss can cause.

The group enjoyed lunch and a guided tour of the gardens conducted by the Earl and Countess of Romney themselves.

“We are extremely grateful  to Earl and Countess Romney for hosting us so generously and allowing our group to experience the wonderful gardens at Gayton Hall,” said Mark Smith, leisure activities co-ordinator at Vision Norfolk.

“The gardens at Gayton Hall are set out in a simple and natural style and very relaxing.  There was lots of birdsong, the sound of gentle water flowing, and with so many spring bulbs and bluebells coming out, plenty of smells for the group to enjoy as well.

“Gardening is a popular pastime for people living with sight loss, and to experience such a personal and intimate tour of such a renowned and fantastic garden was a real privilege.”

More details about the programme of leisure activities offered by Vision Norfolk can be found at www.visionnorfolk.org.uk/supporting-you/activities.