SOLDIERS and civilians joined forces for the fifth annual Coronation Park Community Work Day in Catterick Garrison.

The aim of the event, on Saturday, was to improve the environment and create a safer park for use by the community.

Dozens of people helped out and enjoyed the free barbecue at the end of the day.

Volunteers were asked to take gloves, spades, rakes, forks, shears and saws, but most of the tools were provided.

Garrison Radio broadcast music and there were free pony rides, a penalty shoot-out competition and a bouncy castle for the children.

Colonel Johnny Hackett, garrison commander, said: "The garrison has prided itself for some years on improving the quality of life, not only for servicemen and women, but the local community as well, and recent developments have shown our commitment to that philosophy.

"It will also help to bring both the military and civilian communities together with a common cause."