SOLDIERS from an illustrious North-East regiment sprang into action this week (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 of the dig, said they had responded to a request from the Blind Veterans charity for manpower to tackle the wilderness in the garden at the former soldier’s home.

He said: “We were more than willing to help out when the call came in.

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

“Once a soldier always a soldier and we are very proud to help.

“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."

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

Pennie Williams of BlindVeterans thanked the soldiers for their help and said there were always volunteering opportunities. Anyone who would like to help can contact her on 01670 528473.