EMPLOYEES of an engineering firm have transformed a garden to create a haven for youngsters with learning disabilities.

Four university students on placement at Cummins Engines, in Darlington, have organised the firm's community project at Harewood Hill Lodge short-break centre for youngsters with learning disabilities.

Bronia Campbell, who is on a year out from her business and marketing degree at Sunderland University, said she and the other students Lucy Kerr, Jacqui Walker, and Nicola Tyrrell, organised the project.

They then advertised internally for other employees to volunteer to help them do the work in the gardens, using tools and equipment donated by the firm's suppliers.

The work included clearing the garden, levelling it, removing a tree and stumps, building raised-brick flower beds, laying a path, returfing, installing a water feature, decking, building a summer house and a barbecue.

Bronia said: "The lodge gave us a budget for the restoration project which we managed. The work took about six months working weekends, with about 20 staff from Cummins involved. It was hard work, but it was worth it."

The restored garden was opened by Middlesbrough FC footballers Steve Vickers and Robbie Mustoe.

Shirley King, senior residential social worker at the centre, said the garden was going to make a big difference to the 13 youngsters who use the centre for respite.

"It's just wonderful," she said. "Cummins have put so much effort and hard work into it. So much thought has been put in to meet all the disabilities and the needs the individuals have, it's unbelievable."