VISITORS gathered at Little Sutton C of E Primary School in Ellesmere Port on Thursday, September 27, as the school officially opened its 'Spiritual Garden'.

The community project, which was created with the help of Councillors for Ledsham and Manor - Peter Wheeler and Christine Warner, is a green space in which the children can engage with and quietly reflect on nature. The Bishop of Chester, Mark Tanner attended to bless the garden and local MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, Justin Madders was also among the visitors.

The ribbon was cut by Cllr Wheeler, before pupils sang hymns and songs and performed a dance to celebrate the garden's opening.

Father Mark of St Paul's Church, Hooton, which has longstanding links with the school, was also on hand to give a sermon.

Chester and District Standard: Pupils inspect the bug hotel with Bishop's Chaplain Rachel Hsuan.Pupils inspect the bug hotel with Bishop's Chaplain Rachel Hsuan. (Image: Matthew Dougherty)

The garden was landscaped by the school's former caretaker Ian Dunbavand and volunteer group, the 'Monday Men', who look after St Paul's church grounds.

Deputy Headteacher, Jane Edwards said: "We're really thankful to have been supported by our local community in bringing together The Spiritual Garden. It's a wonderful place for our children and the whole school community to take time to enjoy quiet moments, to think about past, present and future endeavours or simply to just stop and reconnect with the world around us.

"Monty Don said, 'A garden is not a place; it's a journey' and we're really excited to be on this spiritual journey."

George Bulman, CEO of the Samara Trust which manages Little Sutton, Clutton and Upton Heath primary schools, said: "In the spirit of The Samara Trust's mission to 'Reach up, Reach Out', today's event is a wonderful example of the power of collaboration and community. As we inaugurate this lovely space, it is heartwarming to witness the unity of our pupils, community groups, and guests.

"This garden symbolises not just the growth of our schools but the blossoming of our community bonds. We look forward to the continued nurturing of these connections as we reach ever higher and farther together."

Bishop of Chester, Mark Tanner said: "We have 110 church school around the diocese and in each of them having some kind of green space, I think its scientifically proven, is better for mental health, relational health and better for spiritual health and it just gives children a safe space to be. That connection with nature really matters.

On seeing the children engaging with the new garden, the Bishop added: "I love it. To see the fantastic work here at Little Sutton and the great way that the school are investing just makes all the difference. The grins on the faces, the little ones dancing in the assembly, and the singing, I was smiling away."

Justin Madders MP, said: "I was pleased to be able to attend the official opening yesterday by Cllr Peter Wheeler of the spiritual garden at Little Sutton C of E Primary School.

"It was a wonderful occasion and now the children and staff members and others who visit the school have a great place for reflection and contemplation."