Chieveley-based Prior’s Court grows new partnership with Commonwealth War Graves Commission to remember World War veterans

Young people have embraced a horticulture project to commemorate those who died in both World Wars.

Young people with autism at Prior’s Court have teamed up with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Autism to commemorate those who died during both World Wars.

At the end of September, the commission delivered compost, pots and seeds to the Hermitage-based charity so its young people could begin growing flowers to be used at its military cemeteries and memorials.

The seeds have been planted in Prior’s Court’s own polytunnels and will be cared for by its young people over the winter.

The flowers will be presented to the commission, based in Maidenhead, in the spring.

Prior’s Court land-based learning specialist Wendy Moffatt said: “This is a wonderful project to be involved in as it supports horticulture-based learning which provides so many benefits for our young people.

“But it also allows for learning around topics such as history and culture due to the nature of the work of the commission.

“We’re very excited about this project and look forward to being able to present the flowers in spring.”

The project started thanks to the commission’s regional manager for the South East, Andy Murray, who previously worked at Prior’s Court.

“This is fantastic opportunity to collaborate with Prior’s Court and deliver a project that benefits all those involved,” said Mr Murray.

“Young people at Prior’s Court will get the opportunity to grow plants that will used by our gardeners on our war graves cemeteries across the South East of England.”