THE Mayor of Woking, Cllr Beryl Hunwicks, declared the Eikon Hopes and Dreams Garden at Fullbrook School “most inspiring” on a recent visit.

Eikon, an award-winning charity, works with pupils who need additional learning support and a safe environment in which to thrive.

As the mayor noted: “With help from youth workers and staff from RHS Wisley, the pupils have created the most wonderful space where they can reflect, sow seeds, grow plants, care for the land and learn new skills. I found it most inspiring.”

Cllr Hunwicks met student volunteers David Playfoot and Jed Denny, who explained their role as volunteer youth leaders.  Both are sixth-form pupils at the Addlestone school and have been supported by the Eikon programme.

David was asked how Eikon had helped him.  “It was a huge support to me throughout school,” he said.  “It was a place to go every lunchtime if I needed to talk to someone about the issues I was facing.  I always knew someone would be there.”

Cllr Hunwicks was particularly taken with the Darkness into Light area. The first element is planted with dark plants and is under the shade of a tree, which then, through an archway of light, gives way to sunlight and brightly-coloured plants. It signifies how young people can walk out of the darkness and into the light if they face their feelings head on.

To find out more about Eikon’s work with young people in Surrey, or to donate, please visit  www.eikon.org.uk/appeal

For the full story get the 21 November edition of the News & Mail