YOUNGSTERS now have the chance to relax in a special school garden thanks to the hard work of volunteers.

Staff from McDonald's, in Wolviston, and parents of children at Ashtrees School, Billingham, Teesside, got together to create a sensory garden after the school received a grant from the Ronald McDonald Children's Charity.

Tom Conroy, manager at the restaurant, said: "The garden will allow the children to feel different textures and see new things.

"They previously had 6ft of overgrowth, and thanks to everyone's hard work, they now have this new garden with excellent features."

Iain Bowren, headteacher at the school, said: "All of the youngsters at the school have learning difficulties and it will give them a marvellous sensory experience.

"We have had this dream for many years and for it to come true is fantastic.

"I would like to say a big thank you to Mr Conroy, the staff from McDonald's and the parents."