THE neglected garden of a care home will be restored to its former glory thanks to a team of volunteers.

A garden was gifted to the residents of Rockliffe Court, in Hurworth, around four years ago, but received little attention since and, until recently, had fallen into neglect.

But the volunteers, led by Hurworth resident Barbara Bell, have set about restoring the garden and creating a fund for its ongoing maintenance.

A coffee morning held in July raised more than £540 which, together with donations from local businesses, has now secured a reserve of over £1,000 for the work.

Rockliffe Court provides domiciliary care, counselling and support for adults with physical or learning disabilities, and is staffed around the clock to enable them to live independently in their own homes.

Volunteers have welcomed the offer from Shepherd Construction to assist with landscaping and also thanked Bramwells Jewellers, CP Offset, Cummins Engines, Darlington Building Society, Darlington Lions Club, Darlington Rotary Club, Fireplace Marketing Company, Hurworth Fisheries, Hurworth Parish Council, Marks and Spencer, Middlesbrough Football Club, Northern Rock and Wilkinsons for their support.