SOLDIERS from an illustrious North-East regiment sprang into action today (Wednesday, May 6) to help landscape the garden of a visually-impaired veteran.

The garden gang answered the call to help retired Regimental Sergeant Major Brian Elliott, 72, of Delves Lane, near Consett, County Durham.

The volunteers are all members of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry based at Fenham Barracks, Newcastle.

Trooper Simon Hair, one of the organisers, said they had responded to a request from the Blind Veterans charity for manpower to tackle the garden wilderness at the former soldier’s home.

He said: “We couldn’t be more delighted than to put our gardening skills to the test to help a former colleague.

“We have received tremendous support from the local community who have very generously donated numerous pieces of garden equipment to make our task just that little bit easier.”

A local church donated shovels, spades, forks and wheelbarrows and a Jewson Builders' Merchants in Newcastle provided a Rotavator for the day.

Mr Elliott, who served in six regiments with the Royal Artillery during 25 years of service, said: “They have been absolutely fantastic with the help they have given me.

“I can plants stuff and things like that, but with being blind I am limited with what I can do.

“I have a big greenhouse and have always been able to put flowers in hanging baskets, but to get on and do this now has given me a new lease of life.”

The work will enable Mr Elliott to plant vegetables.

Joining Tpr Hair were Corporal Ben Stobbs, Lance Corporal Dave Rankin, Trooper Simon Hair, Tpr Amila Dayananda, Tpr Jack Ash and Tpr Ross Pembroke.

Anyone wishing to volunteer for Blind Veterans can call 01670 528473.