A FORGOTTEN corner of a North-East centre for adults with learning disabilities has been transformed into a sweet smelling haven.

For years, an outdoor section of the Durham Centre at Aykley Heads had languished uncared for and untended.

It may well have stayed that way if it had not been for the centre's parents' and friends' association, whose members decided to look for an innovative way to mark the millennium, as well as to celebrate the centre's Silver Jubilee.

The group came up with the idea of a sensory garden, and the area has been transformed into a magical mixture of gently falling water, fragrant flowers and beautiful, rustling trees, plants and shrubs.

Chairman of the parents' and friends' Tom Scott said: "We considered many ideas for the joint celebrations, but we were looking for something different, something special, something permanent.''

At the opening of the garden, Mr Scott thanked Rebecca Musgrove, of Foxwood Garden Centre, Chester-le-Street, for drawing up the intricate and effective design.

He also paid tribute to the Spadework Group, from Houghall Community College, for carrying out much of the work, and the staff at the centre for their tireless commitment to the project.

Cutting the ribbon to mark the opening was the Mayor of Durham, Councillor George Cowper, who was once deputy manager of the centre before moving to Lanchester.

He spoke of his great affection for the centre and wished clients "many happy hours in this lovely garden''.

With the promise of further funding to come, the centre is now planning an indoor garden with a Mediterranean theme.