Nigel’s story

Nigel Bennett, 67, is Green Patch’s very own handy man, helping to work on cutting the grass and maintaining the polytunnel structures. If Nigel isn’t looking after the sunflowers, you’ll probably find him dressed up as one!

“Before Green Patch, I worked as a truck driver and in warehouses for over 30 years, but when I was made redundant, I wanted to try something new. I started at Green Patch as a volunteer in 2009, and became a permanent staff member in 2012 as I enjoyed working with the team so much. One of my roles was working with the children’s clubs, but I discovered my main passion to be working hands-on fixing and building new structures.

Green Patch was awarded a Children in Need grant, and produced a cracking barefoot walk sensory garden project. I was lucky enough to dress up as Pudsey Bear myself, it was great but very hot.

Green Patch to me is about being free. You help other people in the community, but also help yourself and discover passions you might have never thought of before. It’s a little slice of heaven.”