I am writing on behalf of the Garden City Community Group which was established in February 2011.

We are a pro-active community group seeking to improve the area of Garden City Chepstow. We have many ideas, and are actively raising funds to achieve these.

We are a new community group and have spent a lot of time promoting ourselves within the area. We have had positive feedback from Garden City residents and support from the Town Council.

We have set up a Facebook page and email address and have regular contact with 70-plus residents. We have established a constitution for the group, and we are in the process of applying for charitable status.

One of our main aims is to create a social network within the community. This will help with crime prevention and the wellbeing of all. We have already received a Community Notice Board and a picnic table from the Town Council, and grants for bulbs and trees.

One of our first projects is the playing fields off Severn View. We have been given funding towards establishing a wildlife area within the park, and hope soon to be able to provide more seating and bins around the area.

Long term we would like to add more play equipment and improve the adjacent woodland (none of the works would detract from the football pitches).

We are working closely with other groups such as Keep Wales Tidy and are undertaking anti-litter and dog fouling campaigns in the area.

So far we have done various activities to promote the group, and raise funds including a big lunch (picnic in the park); plant swaps/open garden tours; book sales; various grant applications.

And we plan to keep the momentum going.

In mid December we are hoping to undertake a competition so I am seeking prizes from local businesses or if you think you may be able to offer your support in any other way do not hesitate to get in touch. We will ensure Garden City and the wider community know you are supporting our work

– Sheena Ellis (on behalf of Garden City Community Group).