A NEGLECTED garden is being transformed into an orchard at the former home of poet WH Davies.


As part of the restoration project at Glendower in Nailsworth, volunteers from the Stroud Valleys Project are helping to clear the garden and plant varieties of heritage fruit trees.


William Henry Davies moved to Nailsworth in 1928 and spent his final years in the 18th Century cottage in Watledge until his death in 1940.


His great nephew Norman Phillips lived in the property for 60 years but moved out due to ill health and the Grade II listed cottage has since undergone restoration works over the last few years.


Mr Phillips hopes to move back into the property and for the cottage to become a focus for students and visitors - his famous poem Leisure is already commemorated in a stone tablet in the front wall.


In 2010 the Friends of Glendower group was formed to help Mr Phillips raise the necessary funds to restore the building.


Anthony Burton, who founded the group, said: "Davies wrote the memorable words 'What is this life, if full of care, we have no time to stand and stare'.
"SVP is providing a necessary opportunity for giving visitors time to stand and stare at this charming valley-side site."


For more information about volunteering with SVP contact Ivi Szaboova on 01453 753 358.