New lawn brings 'glory' back to Exeter hospice after storm delays

A community-led project to revitalise the gardens of an Exeter hospice has finally reached completion, following months of disruption caused by severe weather and building works.

The "Turf it Forward" initiative, launched by Topsham-based HCT Turf, has transformed the grounds of Hospiscare’s Searle House after a series of setbacks.

The project, which saw the donation of 150 square metres of locally grown turf, was originally scheduled for completion last year but was thwarted by the elements.

The transformation was initially set for November 2025, but the arrival of Storm Claudia brought the South West to a standstill. Heavy rain and high winds made the ground impossible to work with, forcing an immediate delay.

Further complications arose when major structural building works at Searle House restricted access to the site, leaving the project in limbo for several months.

Work finally commenced at the end of March once the construction phase concluded.

The restoration was a collaborative local effort, with several businesses donating their time and machinery:

• HCT Turf: Provided the premium turf and topsoil.

• County Grounds Maintenance: Sam Burdick and his crew provided the labour.

• Steve Brook Haulage: Victor and Kitty Brook assisted with logistics and transport.

The team focused on the main entrance and the rear garden, where topsoil was used to level dips left by the removal of an old pergola.

For Richard Hockley, owner of HCT Turf, the project was more than just a business donation. Having lost a close friend to cancer, he said supporting the hospice was deeply personal.

"In these gloomy times, it’s just nice to do something positive," Mr Hockley said. "Hospiscare is such a wonderful charity... we hope staff, patients, and visitors enjoy the revitalised lawns."

Sharon Ewart, Estates Manager at Hospiscare, who nominated the site for the campaign, said the timing was perfect.

"The garden at the hospice is a special place for patients and their loved ones," she said. "With the spring flowers and blossom now out, the garden and the front lawn look better than ever."

The team is expected to return to the site in the coming weeks to roll the turf once it has fully settled into the Exeter soil.