Quaker Memorial Gardens – before work began

Quaker Memorial Gardens in the heart of Selby has undergone a transformation thanks to the work of a number of offenders working on a Community Payback scheme.

The scheme, managed by HLNY CRC, has involved teams of people on unpaid work orders in the town centre.

Now the garden just off Audus Street, named after John Audus a local ship owner, merchant and benefactor to the town during the 18th century, has had a major makeover. The area has been cleared of weeds and undergrowth by those on probation and railings and benches in the seating area have been renovated and repainted to create a more attractive aspect in the town.

The team have also removed all rubbish from the area and leveled the landscaping in preparation for the planting of wild flowers and shrubs to create and attractive public space.

John Audus transformed and gentrified part of Selby, when it was still a busy port town in the 18th Century, inspired by the Georgian architecture of Bath and Buxton. The Crescent is the principal focus of his plan though the centre piece is remains the Abbey which gained an enhanced setting by the curving back of the Crescent opposite its southern elevation.

Chris Long, placement coordinator at HLNY CRC, said: “Since we began work at Audus Street the reaction from town’s folk and others has been so positive as they have witnessed first-hand the genuine contribution those on probation can make working on a Community Payback scheme.”

Community Payback aims to rehabilitate offenders through working on projects that benefit the community.

Aimi Brookes, Selby environmental services officer, said: “Quaker Memorial Gardens now look amazing. The Community Payback team have done a really brilliant job in resurrecting this part of the town made famous by one Selby’s great benefactors. Local community volunteers will now work to further enhance the area.”

Martin Davies, chief executive of HLNY CRC, said: “Community Payback schemes like the one delivered in Selby provide a means by which those on probation learn new skills to support their rehabilitation and future employment prospects and put something back into their local community.”

Over the past 12 months HLNY CRC has supervised a wide range of community payback projects across North Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Humberside bringing real benefits to the communities.

*The Community Payback Team would like to hear about other projects which residents think will make a real difference to their community. Contact us by emailing [email protected]