A SCHEME which has helped people get to grips with their gardens is entering a new phase.

The Garden Doctor scheme, led by Groundwork West Durham and Darlington, began in May and drew to a close this week.

The project, funded by Neighbourhood Liveability, involved volunteers Margaret Plews and Sandra Dobson making home visits to residents in Woodhouse Close, Bishop Auckland, to give advice to gardeners of all abilities.

It was well supported by community organisations in Woodhouse Close, with Dale and Valley Homes referring their tenants to the scheme and Woodhouse Close Church and Community Centre acting as a base for the project.

Joanne Morley, project officer at Groundwork West Durham and Darlington, said: "We have had a positive response to the scheme, with some of our clients over the moon with the advice they received.

"I hope that their experience of the Garden Doctor scheme has given them the confidence to make their garden their own."

A free gardening guide, which will give simple hints and tips for each season, is being produced.

The information in the guide will come from the years of experience of Garden Doctor volunteers, and the finished product will be available - initially to people in Woodhouse Close Estate - by the end of the year.