Student volunteers are urgently needed on Tuesday 20 November to plant 10,000 bulbs to help brighten up a local community garden named after a police officer who died suddenly while on duty.
The Austin Jackson memorial garden is named after the 38-year-old police officer, who did so much to help youngsters on the St Matthew’s estate in Leicester, before his death in March 2017.
DMU students will join community volunteers in planting the 10,000 donated bulbs at the garden in Willow Street, St Matthew’s, on Tuesday from 9am to 4pm.
DMU’s Project Co-ordinator Amina Lunat said: “We already have 17 students who have agreed to volunteer but need far more for what is a very good cause.
“The planting of 10,000 bulbs will make so much difference to the park and help to further brighten up the estate.”
Simon Johnson, chair of the St Matthew’s Big Local charity, said: “We are asking for your support to create an army of helpers to plant 10,000 bulbs at the Austin Jackson memorial garden.
“If you are able to help for an hour, or the whole day it will be very much appreciated. If you have any friends, family or colleagues that can help then bring them along too. Many hands will make light work. Wrap up warm, bring your wellies, some garden gloves and a trowel or spade if you can.”
Light refreshments and hot drinks will be provided during the day.
PC Jackson was taken ill and died while on duty on 16 March 2017, leaving behind his wife Simone and four children. He had worked the St Matthews estate from September 2014 until his death.
The officer worked on a project that used football and sport to inspire young people. It engaged youngsters in activities, including a wide variety of sports, coaching, music and educational and personal development sessions, to help reduce anti-social behaviour.
Any students interested in volunteering should sign up by going to the event page at MyGateway.
Posted on Friday 16 November 2018