Our thanks go to The National Lottery Community Fund for its support for our work to transform a disused yard off Dumfries High Street into a new community garden.

We have been granted £9,950 to overhaul the space behind  111 and 113 High Street, which had become forgotten, overgrown and full of debris, and bring it back to life as a vibrant, living area.

The grant will support our work, which is being carried out by a community taskforce assembled especially for the project.

Midsteeple Quarter is among a number of projects in Dumfries and Galloway to be successful in the latest round of funding, made possible by National Lottery players.

The National Lottery Community Fund, Scotland Chair, Kate Still, said: “National Lottery funding can make amazing things happen in local communities.

“This project, delivered by Midsteeple Quarter, is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others. National Lottery players can be proud to know that the money they raise is helping to support this vital work which is making a real difference to so many.”

Work on the garden so far has included the removal of old white goods which were dumped in the yard. With them gone - thanks to Dumfries and Galloway Council - work can now start on clearing the site.

Midsteeple Quarter Community Engagement Activator Kathryn Hill said: “Our huge thanks to players of The National Lottery and to The National Lottery Community Fund for getting behind our community garden project. We’re grateful for the support and excited to see the transformation taking shape.”

If you’d be interested in helping by volunteering, Kathryn would love to hear from you - kathryn@midsteeplequarter.org.

You can read more about the project and those involved by clicking here.