YOUNG farmers clubs in Cambridgeshire have renovated a garden at Virginia Way a house for adults with learning difficulties in St Ives. The clubs spokesman, Will Shephard, whose farm is in Longstanton, said: The garden did not have much to offer in its

YOUNG farmers clubs in Cambridgeshire have renovated a garden at Virginia Way a house for adults with learning difficulties in St Ives.

The clubs' spokesman, Will Shephard, whose farm is in Longstanton, said: "The garden did not have much to offer in its original current state for the five people who live there as it was overgrown and unexciting.

"We were asked to undertake the garden makeover and we were happy to do that as young farmers are keen to take part in community projects.

"We wanted to make the garden into a low maintenance and user friendly space with plenty of interest for the residents.

"We have put in a raised herb garden as the residents are keen cooks and they can use these in their recipes.

"We have also put in an area for a swinging wooden bench seat for relaxing. We have designed raised beds around one edge with flowers, shrubs and grasses.

"On the opposite side, we have kept and increased the existing patio area so the residents can enjoy al fresco dining during the summer. The area in the centre of the garden we have left is grass and we are donating some football goals so there should be something for everyone."

The project, which cost £450, was paid for with money raised by the young farmers.

Mr Shephard added: "We would like to thank our sponsors, Mick George for building materials, Christine and Robert Gilbert of Queenholme Farm, Willingham, for providing the sleepers and soil for the raised beds, and Nick Grounds from Wisbech for the plants.

A careworker at Virginia Way, Chris Sugars, said: "The garden is absolutely awesome. We are grateful to the young farmers for their hard work."

INFORMATION: See: www.cambridgeyoungfarmers.co.uk