GREEN-FINGERED residents are preparing to get their hands dirty this summer, as work begins on a new garden development.

Local company Green Onion Landscaping has teamed up with housing tenants and staff to celebrate the first removal of turf at extra-care scheme Aspen Gardens in Hardwick, Stockton.

The project which is expected to take around a month to complete, was part funded by Stockton Leisure and Sports Development team in partnership with Stockton-on-Tees Primary Care Trust (PCT) through a scheme to develop and offer a wide range of opportunities for people over 50 to enjoy physical activity outdoors.

Aspen Gardens was awarded £3,000 by the scheme for the creation of the garden, which once complete will be maintained by tenants with help from staff and volunteers.

Health and fitness development officer, Carla Jackson, said: "This is a fantastic project for the tenants of Aspen Gardens and for them to be involved in the upkeep of the garden will have many physical and therapeutic benefits.

"It is a great way for people to stay mobile and active and to see the tenants grow their own vegetables will be very satisfying as well as healthy which is what the project is all about."

Once complete, the garden will be used as both a working garden with seasonal plants and vegetables and as a place to relax for tenants.