Marlow gardening group boosting mental health to rename itself after founding member

A gardening group in Marlow which helps to boost people’s mental health will be renamed in honour of a ‘wonderful’ founding member who passed away in 2020.

The Marlow Growers’ Group will be relaunching as Paula’s Group on Monday, November 6, in honour of Paula Taplin who died aged 65, just before Christmas in 2020.

The Marlow resident was instrumental in setting up the group at the Hanging Hills allotments to help those suffering from anxiety, loneliness and depression.

Members of the horticultural and social therapy group meet each week and grow a variety of flowers and vegetables in a ‘supportive and friendly atmosphere’, while also enjoying a break for refreshments and biscuits.

The group is open to anyone who may be living with mental or physical problems and wants to be part of a group of friends and is free of charge.

Ron Davis, a horticultural therapist who runs the group, said: “Paula was a long-time member who benefitted a lot from the weekly sessions.

“She was a great supporter of the group and recommended it to the Marlow GP surgery so that other patients could also benefit.

“She was instrumental in securing the tenancy at Hanging Hills allotments. She is greatly missed and in recognition of her work it is fitting that the group will now be known as Paula’s Group.”

Paula, who is survived by her mother Coralie and two sons, lived with several health difficulties and was virtually blind towards the end of her life.

She enjoyed gardening, going to All Saints Church in Marlow and driving her car.

Her mum Coralie said: “She was wonderful, kind and caring. She was just a lovely daughter.

“She was quiet and shy, but if anybody wanted anything done, she was there. She would volunteer and helped all sorts of people.

“She never complained and was always the first to help out.”

Paula’s Group meets each Wednesday from 11am to 1pm and members do not need previous knowledge of gardening, with all the equipment and tools required being supplied.

The group has been supported by donations from The Shanly Foundation, which has aided in paying for a large shed which members use to sow seeds and pot on plants, Marlow Town Council and Marlow Allotments Association.

Ron added: “Social and horticultural therapy is increasingly recognised as a very good way to overcome depression, anxiety and many other ailments. We would be delighted to welcome new members to Paula’s Group.”

Those interested in joining the group can contact Ron at 01628484042 or 07809242395.