A SENSORY garden funded by a community who fought back after a care home burglary has been unveiled.

Elderly war veteran and resident Lenny Hanratty, whose treasured military medals were among the items snatched, performed the official ribbon-cutting duty at Chilton Care Centre, in Chilton, near Ferryhill.

The garden was created using some of the near £3,000 funds that have been raised by the community since the burglary on July 29 last year.

Manager Michael Beaney said: "I'm just overwhelmed by the support. It's unbelievable the amount of work that has been put in by volunteers.

"It's gone down remarkably well. We've seen residents who spend all their time in their rooms going outside and we've got staff coming up with ideas.

"Everyone can benefit from it and it will make a difference."

The opening on Wednesday was attended by some of the fundraisers including representatives of the care home's neighbouring pub, The Wheatsheaf.

The Bishops Pipers provided music for guests and residents, including Freda Lee who has been at the home since it opened more than 11 years ago and joined Mr Hanratty for the opening.

The garden was the vision of deputy manager Maxine Smith who spent three weeks transforming it with the help of her family and volunteers.

She said: "It's been an absolutely fantastic turnout and I just want to thank everybody for coming and supporting it and helping me.

Leftover funds also covered the cost of an HD projector to show films on.