The Friends of Rayleigh Station (FoRS) volunteers 'adopted' the station a year ago. They care for a number of flower tubs on the platforms and outside the station entrance. They recently transformed an overgrown section of the Southend bound platform by building three large raised beds and planted a number of perennial shrubs to provide all year round colour and interest.

Adjacent to Rayleigh Stations main entrance is a derelict plot of land, which many years ago was the station masters allotment. It has been unused and overgrown for decades . FoRS have now taken on the challenge of turning the land (25mx10m) into a community garden which will be available for all to enjoy.

The garden idea was formed during the challenges of the Covid pandemic. Living in lockdown, social distancing and isolation has had a negative impact on mental health. Highlighting the importance of family, friends, socialising and access to communal outdoor spaces. Transforming the derelict plot will create a new garden space where the local community can sit, relax and meet friends.

FoRS are now focused on making the garden become a reality and are grateful for any support and assistance that can be offered. Partial funding for the garden has already been provided by Greater Anglia, the Community Rail group and Rayleigh Town Council. We still have some way to go and a number of people have asked if they can make a donation. Through this 'crowdfunding page' we have set ourselves a target of raising £3,000 to purchase 6 benches for the garden.

Your donation will be gratefully received in supporting the creation of a new community garden space.