YOUNGSTERS have been getting involved in an environmental project in Hartlepool.

The children, whose ages range from six to 13, have now twice given up their spare time to work on a community garden at the Osbourne Road Centre.

They have carried out a general tidy-up, including weeding and pruning, and have planted seeds, including sunflowers, marigolds and nasturtium.

"The young people have worked very hard and deserve a lot of credit for giving up their own time," said Keeley Metcalfe, of Hartlepool Borough Council.

Irene Cross, from the Government's New Deal for Communities, said: "It's so pleasing to see young people supporting such a worthwhile project.