GRAPES will be grown at the Salter's Hill adult learning centre in Falcon Lane, Ledbury, now that a special pergola has been built free of charge for the residents.

Construction specialists Speller Metcalfe took five days to create the impressive timber walkway, which provides covered access to a greenhouse where the live-in adults can take part in gardening workshops and grow local produce.

Julie Newman, the creative learning manager at Salter’s Hill said: "It's brilliant. Now we are hoping to grow some grapes in the pergola. This is all about extending opportunities for our residents.

“Like all charities providing services, we have been faced with the challenges of maintaining the services that we provide in increasingly difficult times. Steve Speller met us some time ago at our Learning Centre and over the last year has provided advice, expertise and assistance with projects.”

Prior to completion of the pergola, Speller Metcalfe had donated surplus timber for Salter’s Hill projects such as woodwork workshops to build garden chairs and bird houses.

“We have received fantastic support on our ‘Winter Cover’ project,” said Julie.

“This will give us a safe and dry walkway to our greenhouse area, making it usable all year round. It will also give all the groups that use the area a fantastic new facility, and enable us to continue to work outside during bad weather.”

Speller Metcalfe's joint managing director, Steve Speller, said: “We are very proud to be able to provide the Salter’s Hill charity with a pergola which can be used by both staff and the live-in adults as a garden feature.

“Not only can everyone enjoy the pergola, but it can now be used as an opportunity to develop gardening skills and promote learning for the adults. Salter’s Hill is a fantastic charity and we look forward to maintaining our relationship.”