A COMMUNITY garden has been opened with help from the police.

The Fulforth Centre, in Sacriston, has unveiled a “garden of respite” an area which is maintained by volunteers as a peaceful environment open to everyone, but particularly elderly residents and sufferers of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Durham Police worked with the Fulforth Centre to develop the garden.

Detective Inspector Paul Gray said: “Mental health doesn’t always get the focus it needs, and with such a large elderly community in Sacriston, it’s important to have somewhere to go for a breath of fresh air.”

He added: “We’re working towards closing that gap between the police and the community.

“Part of that means asking the public what really matters to them, and listening to the voices that aren’t always heard.

“This garden is all the hard work of local volunteers, so there’s a strong sense of personal professional pride in it already”.

Police Crime and Victim Commissioner Ron Hogg cut the ribbon at a ceremony to officially open the garden.

He said: “It’s great to see so many people volunteering to make a success of the garden of respite.

“Their contribution has been fundamental, and the garden provides a lovely, tranquil environment for local people.”