
Background
Lee moved into Dorset Mews in 1999. Over the years, he became passionate about improving the outdoor spaces in and around his home.
He recalls spending hours as a child up in the trees, finding comfort the soothing sound of the wind through the leaves. offering him a space to retreat and recharge. Even now, he reflects on how being outside in the fresh air always felt like a sanctuary, especially when life seemed overwhelming.
What began as a personal interest in gardening and wildlife, gradually evolved into a dedicated, long-term project to support nature and create a space that the whole community could enjoy.
“I care deeply about wildlife, ecology, and biodiversity. I’ve been looking after the green spaces here for the last 25 years - what was once a basic outdoor area is now a peaceful, thriving garden admired by neighbours and passers-by alike.”
The project
Lee has worked tirelessly to encourage nature to flourish. His efforts have led to the establishment of a biodiverse garden with long-standing nesting and roosting sites. Over the years, he has created a safe, welcoming environment for a wide variety of birds and other wildlife.
Bird species now nesting and roosting include:
- Goldfinches, Wrens, Blue Tits, Bearded Tits, Coal Tits, Great Tits, Long-tailed Tits
- Robins, Blackbirds, Magpies, Doves, Goldcrests, Blue Parakeets, Starlings, Wood Pigeons
- Sparrows with established colonies going back nearly 25 years.
Lee also regularly spots squirrels and visiting fox families, contributing to the garden’s rich ecosystem.
Impact on wellbeing
For Lee, the project has been about more than just gardening- it’s played a vital role in managing his complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“Spending time outdoors, digging, planting, and watching nature grow has brought me peace and purpose. It’s been a source of healing, and I know it’s made a difference to others who enjoy the space too.”
The garden is now a restful, shared haven for residents of Dorset Mews and even those walking by. It’s a powerful reminder of how community green spaces can have a lasting impact -both environmentally and personally.
Although there have been some challenges with new residents, his closest neighbours have consistently supported him, offering help when needed and standing by him through the years. The importance of the community coming together is so important to Lee, especially when faced with life's difficulties.
A lover of the outdoors, he often describes how the quiet moments spent in nature like listening to the wood pigeons or simply watching the world go by bringing a sense of peace that is hard to find anywhere else.
Lee’s love of nature led him to craft a poem that speaks to the calming power of the natural world.
“For my tears and fears, I take silence to my ears, warmed around me like a blanket of kisses that never misses
Silence for me, was the outside nature ...my embracing mother…”
A note on nesting season
Lee reminds us that March to September marks the main nesting season in the UK. Many garden birds, including Robins and Wrens, nest just a few metres off the ground - often in hedges or thick greenery -so it’s important not to disturb these areas during this time.
Conclusion
Lee’s story is a shining example of how one person’s care and dedication can make a real difference. His garden stands as a testament to the power of long-term commitment - to the environment, to wellbeing, and to community life.
“It’s taken years of hard work, but it’s all been worth it. Nature has given me so much and now, we’ve created a space where it can continue to thrive, for everyone to enjoy.”