A community group in Airdrie is marking six years of supporting local families, bringing people together and helping children connect with nature through its popular outdoor sessions.
Muddy Boots, which is based in Whinhall, was established following the Covid-19 lockdowns. After helping to run a local food bank, volunteers were left with £500 from a lottery-funded project and successfully sought permission to use the remaining funding to create an outdoor space for pre-school children.
What started as a simple idea to encourage outdoor play has grown into a thriving and valued community resource, welcoming around 30 to 40 children and their parents, grandparents and carers each week.
Muddy Boots operates during term time on Wednesdays from 10am to 12 noon, with additional sessions during school holidays. Open to everyone, the outdoor classroom offers children opportunities for nature-based play while providing families with a place to meet, socialise and build lasting friendships.
Founder Heather Paterson said: “Muddy Boots started as a way of getting young children outdoors and enjoying nature, but it has become so much more than that. We've seen friendships develop, support networks form and families connect with people they may never otherwise have met.
“It can be quite isolating for new parents, so having a welcoming space where people can share experiences, get advice and build relationships has made a real difference to many families.
“We work alongside Airdrie action partnership, Hope for Autism and CLD sum it up use the site too.”
Looking ahead, the group hopes to continue developing the site, making use of unused areas and introducing new activities based on the interests of local children and families.
Councillor Jim Logue, Leader of North Lanarkshire Council, said: “Congratulations to everyone involved with Muddy Boots on reaching this fantastic milestone.
“For six years the group has provided a welcoming space where children can learn, play and explore the outdoors while families build friendships and support networks.
“The dedication of the volunteers has created something truly special for the Whinhall community, and I wish them every success as they continue to grow and develop in the years ahead.”