Marston’s community gardeners sprout a new identity
Marston’s volunteer-led community gardening group has changed its name to Marston Community Growing, alongside a new logo and a new website: www.marstoncommunitygrowing.co.uk
The update reflects a clearer focus for the group. Rather than acting as a broad home for many local green initiatives, the group is concentrating on the projects it runs most directly — food growing, forest gardening, orchards, trees and shared green spaces in Marston, Oxford.
Previously known as Marston Community Gardening, the group began in 2018, when a small number of residents met to plant trees, tend allotment beds, and learn practical skills together. Over time, it grew into an active local network that also supported broader activities promoting environmental and ecological sustainability.
After eight years, several sustainability and community projects have developed their own identities and leadership. These initiatives, including Marston Eco Group, the SESI Refill Station at the Marston Eco Hub, and Bike Doctor are now set to continue through Low Carbon Marston.
Why “Growing” fits better
The updated name keeps gardening at the centre, while recognising everything that grows from it: skills, confidence, friendships, community connections and care for Nature. It also reflects the different reasons people get involved — from learning how to grow vegetables, plant trees and hedges, to getting outside, meeting neighbours, helping wildlife or doing something practical for shared green spaces.
Kate Robinson, Co-Founder of Marston Community Growing said: “The change is a tidy-up, not a break-up. Partnerships and friendships continue. For example, we are still closely linked with the Giving Garage and Repair Cafe at Marston Eco Hub, sharing equipment and food with local residents and reflecting the same values of reuse, sharing and mutual aid. We just now have a simpler focus on the growing and nature work at our heart.”
What happens next
Marston Community Growing will continue running free, practical, volunteer-led sessions focused on food growing, trees, habitat care and shared green spaces. The new website has been designed to make it easier for residents to see what the group does and how to get involved.
Anyone interested can follow updates online or join a session when it suits. More information about activities, partnerships and upcoming events can be found on the new website and social media:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/marstoncommunitygrowing/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/MarstonCommunityGrowing/
For more information, please email: info@marstoncommunitygrowing.co.uk
