Oakdale Library Gardens celebrated its 10th anniversary on 2 September with a community event that raised over £500 for local charities including Cherry Tree Nursery and Poole Men’s Shed.

Refreshments were provided by the local Altogether WI group, and there was a raffle and musical entertainment by Poole Ukulele Pluckers and Strummers. Children entered a fancy-dress parade, with the winner receiving a day pass to Farmer Palmer’s. Win on Waste, Dorset Wildlife Trust and Skills and Learning were also in attendance.

A new entrance sign was unveiled by Jan Ayrton, who started the project in 2013 and Rob Kingman from Poole Men’s shed, whose group provided the skills to make the wooden framework.

Volunteer lead for Oakdale Library Gardens, Ray Alderton, said: “Oakdale Library Gardens are entirely volunteer-led and self-funded and were established thanks to funding from Creekmoor with Oakdale WI. The main garden, ‘The Bookerie’, was opened in 2013. Many wildlife friendly features have been added to this garden making it a garden for all. There is also a Commemorative Garden, herb garden, coastal garden and a children’s adventure trail. It was a delight to see the local community come and help us celebrate our 10th anniversary and in turn support local charities and community groups.”