Recognition for Cowley Church's Green Haven

THE East Oxford church of St Mary and St John, in urban Cowley St John has gained national recognition for the transformation of its derelict Victorian churchyard into a ‘green haven’ enjoyed by the whole community.

The project has been shortlisted in the Biodiversity category of the Church Times Green Church Awards 2007, and has also netted a Preservation Trust Award for the work carried out.

Project Co-ordinator, Ruth Conway, told the DOOR: Both awards are very affirming. They are a way of saying thank you to all the volunteers who have, in one way or another over the last seven years, been involved in what has been a complex vision to open up the Church and its surroundings to connect with the community once again and encourage wildlife.’

From an overgrown no-go area, the churchyard is now an open and welcoming green space enjoyed by all ages. Restored memorials, and a mini labyrinth created out of ceramic tiles, all individually designed by community members, are just two of the attractions. And the work continues with volunteers currently working to create a butterfly garden.

Ruth says that whatever the final result of the Church Times Awards what has been most important has been ‘the chance to tell our story and perhaps inspire others.’