Darlington couple are making an amazing difference

For a number of years, John and Joan Thompson, of Darlington, have been making some improvements to an area known as Fryer’s Field, close to where they live.

Jen and Carol Clayton, who nominated the Thompsons for our bouquet of the week, said: “We have been visiting the field for the past few years and over that time the positive changes have been noticeable, from planting trees and plants, to the general improvements to the area.

“John is often seen in the field tidying and Joan planting flowers and plants and weeding. During the summer John pushes a lawnmower around creating walkways and marking out the football pitch.

John and Joan Thompson have been leading the maintenance and planting at Fryer's Field, Darlington

“They always seem to be at the forefront of all the improvements made, such as new benches and nominations for awards like Northumbria in Bloom.

“When speaking to them about the improvements, for instance, when the lights were installed, they talk with such pride and enthusiasm.

“Their resilience and positive attitude mean that they take things in their stride and if things are broken and damaged and they work towards putting them right.

“When the footpath flooded, John was out in the dark trying to rectify the problem and it is acts such as this, his pride in the area and his positivity that make the field a place that people want to visit.

“The couple work tirelessly in a quiet and unassuming way, meaning that their input and achievements often go unnoticed.”

If you would like to nominate a special person or group for The Northern Echo’s Bouquet of the Week then please get in touch. You can send your nominations to jo.kelly@newsquest.co.uk, making sure to include a daytime contact telephone number.

• The flowers are provided by Heavenly Scent Florist, Bondgate, Darlington, telephone 01325-389933.