Volunteer plants seeds of success for charity garden

For years, keen gardener John Thompson has cared for the compact garden outside Crossroads, diligently weeding and watering.

A long-time patron of the Blenheim community kitchen and café, John, 70, has devoted his time to ensuring the plants and flower beds are kept in tip-top condition.

And his service have been celebrated with a morning tea and the presentation of a special certificate on Friday as John retires from his role.

He was joined by his two sisters Jill Barclay, who was visiting from Australia, and Shirley Tighe-Umbers.

Crossroads Partnerships Liaison Jeanine Sadd says John has been a wonderful member of the community.

“We wanted to do something to pay tribute to all John has done for us here.

“Our whole ethos is that we are very inclusive, and it is volunteers like John who help do what the everyday crew don’t have time to, like maintaining the garden.

“It’s all about having a sense of belonging and John is part of our Whānau.”

A self-confessed weather fanatic, John says he is looking forward to being able to donate more time to his other passions.

The former joiner and carpenter already has his eye on possible projects at the retirement home where he lives.

“I used to come to Crossroads two or three times a week, keep an eye on things in the garden, especially the moisture content.

“I normally get up around 6am and feed the sparrows then walk into town, it takes me around 45 minutes,” John says.

“I have friends here.”

John grew up on the family farm in Spring Creek and drove a tractor before starting an apprenticeship with Ward & Sons.

He worked around his love of walking, a habit he is determined to continue.

“I’ve walked 35 Marlborough Walks between Blenheim and Picton, and have medals for each one,” he says.

Is John ready to leave his well-cared for garden at Crossroads behind? “I think I’ll need to keep an eye on it,” he smiles.