Is this Preston’s best kept alleyway? Woman transforms litter strewn ginnel into stunning garden
Is this the best kept alleyway in Preston?
A Preston woman who painstakingly transformed the alleyway behind her terraced home from a weed ridden, litter strewn eyesore into a vibrant and welcoming alley garden for her and her neighbours is now encouraging others to do the same.
The alleyway on St Michael’s Road may only be a stone’s throw away from Moor Park, one of Preston’s most iconic outdoor spaces, but having such a space so close did not stop Christina Smuilys from wanting something better for the patch of land behind her home.
The clean cobbles of the alleyway garden are also home to colourful plants and flowers in equally vibrant pots, bunting and other hanging decorations, solar lights, as well as a chiminea, making it a very welcoming spot.
Christina said: “The alleyway used to be all weeds and litter and I wanted it to look tidy. I’ve been doing it for a few years now. I enjoy doing it during the day and at night. It’s lovely at night when the solar lights come on. I sit with a cup of tea. It’s just lovely.
“I know people could do this if they have a ginnel like this. Friends and family come round and we can sit and enjoy it together. It’s really nice because we’re not far from Moor Park. I think other people would enjoy it if they spruced up their ginnel, especially if they had children.”
Christina’s pride in her neighbourhood does not stop there, as she also regularly litter picks in and around St Michael’s Road.
Is there a better kept alleyway than this? Do you know someone who has created an amazing space for their neighbours? Let us know via [email protected]