A VILLAGE is trying to combat loneliness with a new peace garden, which has been officially opened by the High Sheriff of Herefordshire.

High Sheriff Patricia Thomas opened the garden at St James Church in Kinnersley, near Kington, on August 23.

Project manager Ronnie Wilkie said she praised the parochial church council and parish council for recognising the need for peaceful places as the country’s lockdown restrictions continue to ease.

He added: “As we are sited on the A4112, a main tourist route between Birmingham and south Wales, we shall, in addition to working to reduce rural loneliness and engaging with the community, welcome tourists, becoming more of a destination.

“We have already noticed an increased number of visitors.”