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When Hutton Cranswick school teacher Sarah Shepherdson wrote to celebrity gardener Alan Titchmarsh asking for help rejuvenating a part of the school playing field she wasn't quite sure what she was letting herself in for. Children at the school decided they'd like a 'sensory garden' and so began the task to bring a 'Breathing Place' to the area.

Sarah's background is in interior design and she planned to follow a career in museum exhibition design. But, as opportunities are few and far between she took on the role of teaching assistant before gaining the necessary qualifications to become a fully fledged teacher.

Applying for a grant from the BIG Lottery Fund for a Breathing Place is a complicated process yet theΜύschool was fortunate enough to be awarded the maximum amount of Β£10,000. The main lottery fund project has been through a number of phases and the latest, phase three, will see Β£5m distributed to various groups across the country. The aim is to providing a place where wildlife can flourish and is of benefit to the local community.

Sarah says with the help of parents, teachers, other members of the local community including local businesses and almost a year of hard work the garden is complete. She also says the area will continue to develop as the plants grow larger and attract more wildlife.

Sarah comments on the enthusiasm shown by the school's 160 pupils and says it's been enormous. They've have been extremely supportive of the garden and she says having a common purpose has brought them closer together. It has also provided a wealth of educational benefits which fit in with the school's curriculum.

Sarah says the space benefits the whole community and all are welcome to visit the space and speak to Sarah to find out more. Despite the hard work involved in bringing the garden to fruition she's looking forward to the next big challenge.