Richard Bearman: Chair of Trustees

I first became aware of the Grapes Hill Community Garden Group in 2010 whilst I was the county councillor for the area. It has been a privilege to watch the garden and key persons develop the space into the successful project it is today.  Opening in 2011, GHCGG was one of the earliest community gardens in Norwich, and we have helped other growing groups get started, and been an example to many others.  

I had previously been both Treasurer and Chair of Norfolk Organic Group as well as a charity trustee for 10 years at Garden Organic in the 2000’s.  In addition to chairing the board meetings, I consider the role to be representing the organisation at other Norwich & Norfolk events, such as the Outdoor Projects network, and Norfolk Green Care network.  I also have a regular role as one of the bank signatories, paying invoices and monitoring our finances.     

Fran Ellington: Trustee

I co-founded the Grapes Hill Community Garden Group in 2008 and helped secure the essential funding to build and plant the garden. I served as secretary and events organiser until 2018, when we were able to employ staff to take on these roles. I’m proud to continue as a trustee, watching both the group and the garden flourish whilst staying true to our founding aims.

Caroline Fernandez: Outreach and Integration Coordinator

I first visited Grapes Hill Community Garden when it first opened and I was setting up a community garden in Great Yarmouth at the library. I was shown round and gained infornation and tips on how to go about setting up a similar space abd getting people involved. 

I also used to bring groups to visit when I was teaching gardening and independent living skills for Adult Learning. I am a keen kitchen gardener snd love sharing my skills and knowledge.

I have now been working in this role of outreach and events since 2023. My role is to bring people to the garden, coordinate and schedule activities and events and deliver some workshops.