An ambitious project to create a ‘sea garden’ in Silloth for the elderly and those with dementia has received a £1,000 boost thanks to Persimmon Homes.

The funding has been pledged to Creative Horizons Cumbria through the Community Champions scheme, which supports local charities and groups.

Susan Child, director of Creative Horizons Cumbria, said: “Our trained volunteers provide a fun, friendly and engaging environment for people over 70, and those with dementia, to socialise through a range of creative reminiscence activities that invite curiosity, stimulate interest and trigger memories.

“Most people enjoy going to beach and making and sharing memories but older people with mobility issues and frailties do not have this opportunity.

“The sea garden would help them to reconnect with the beach and enjoy reminiscing about the seaside, feel less isolated and gain a renewed sense of purpose and identity.

“Our plan is to develop a sea garden in the dunes overlooking the beach in Silloth and permissions are in place from Associated British Ports who own the site and Natural England who monitor sites of special scientific interest (SSSI).”

For more information about the group, visit www.creativehorizonscumbria.co.uk

Diane Finch, sales director for Persimmon Homes Lancashire, said: “Covid-19 has had a particularly devastating impact on this section of the community, leaving them isolated and lonely, so we are proud to support a worthy organisation that is tackling that issue in a fun and practical way.

“Every month we support two local good causes with donations - and it is so easy to apply. Simply complete the application form at www.persimmonhomes.com/charity telling us how you would use £1,000 to help people in your neighbourhood.”

Persimmon Homes Lancashire operates new homes developments across Lancashire and Cumbria.