FORMER allotments in Stockton have been transformed from wasteland to a community garden.

The site, in Oxbridge Lane, now features a conservation area and a sensory garden.

There are also fruit bushes and trees to attract wildlife and local residents, who can pick and eat the fruit.

A steel tree will provide the focal point for the garden, due to open in summer.

The artwork, which has more than 400 leaves, has been designed and created by blacksmith James Godbold from Egton, near Whitby.

Each pupil from Oxbridge Primary School has drawn a leaf with their name on it and Mr Godbold has fashioned them into steel to place on the tree.

Stockton borough councillor Steve Nelson said: "I am delighted that this site has been transformed."