A COMMUNITY effort has transformed a neglected piece of land into a sensory garden for disabled children.

The Children’s Resource Centre at Morton on Swale has now officially opened its new garden which was made possible thanks to a fantastic community effort.

The Centre provides short breaks for children and young people with disabilities, offering overnight breaks, day care and holiday clubs for those eligible for the service.

The creation of the new garden has followed a long period of hard work within the community co-ordinated by deputy manager, Joanne Thompson.

It received support from Tesco Blue token scheme, the 5th Regiment Royal Artillery and Shirley Hayes and the post-16 department of the Dales School who came up with designs and ideas for the garden.

Students from Northdale Horticulture in Northallerton and staff and young people from the centre were also involved in creating the garden.

The work involved digging up the previous garden, re-paving the ground and sourcing materials for the garden and artwork from local groups.

Post-16 art students from Northallerton School created a welcome sign and a bench has been installed in memory of staff members who have passed away.

Centre deputy manager Lisa Forbes said: “We will be continuing to develop our garden and hope to continue to build on these strong links we have within our community.”

She added: “It has been a real combined effort and we are truly grateful for all the support we have had to make this possible for the young people who access our service.”