A FAMILY-RUN sawmill business has teamed up with two horticultural therapy projects to help its display area flourish.

Duncombe Sawmill, in Helmsley, asked the team at Helmsley Walled Garden to plan and maintain the area off Castlegate, close to the castle in the town centre.

The flowerbeds were planted by adults taking part in the garden’s horticultural therapy programme. They are now being regularly maintained by students from Welburn Hall School and College, a special school in nearby Kirkbymoorside for students aged between eight and 19.

Sawmill owner Emma Woods said: “We are very pleased to be able to work alongside Helmsley Walled Garden and Welburn School as they both play a very important role within Ryedale.

“It’s exciting to be involved in producing an attractive garden in the centre of Helmsley that hopefully benefits everyone involved. Our bespoke gates and fencing look fantastic amongst such well-kept plants.”

Helmsley Walled Garden manager Mike I’Anson said: “This was a wonderful opportunity for the pupils to take the skills learnt here in the garden out into the community.

“It also contributes to all the work being undertaken by others to ensure Helmsley continues to be attractive to visitors.”