Stanton Drew and Pensford Pre-school Playgroup's hard work has paid off - with the official opening of a beautiful new garden by the children.

Chairwoman of the pre-school committee Sue Cowley said: "The grand opening was a great success and it was lovely to see so many members of the local community coming together to celebrate their achievement.

"The children are really excited about their new garden and can't wait to taste the first fruits of their labour."

A sale of plants and cakes held that afternoon also raised money for playgroup funds.

The garden was created in true Ground Force-style, when Chew Valley residents worked together to build it.

The pre-school is a small, community-run playgroup based in the village hall in Stanton Drew, and the hall committee has allowed a strip of land adjacent to the hall to be used to create the garden.

Local people and businesses gave their support to make the project possible, and garden designer Steve Collins drew up a design for the space for free.

Local building firm Vears donated free construction materials.

Mark Vear, the owner of the company and one of the volunteers, said: "It's a pleasure to offer our support to a project like this, which benefits the local children and the local community.

Local builders R O Dando also donated building materials, while Whitehall Garden Centre in Whitchurch gave garden items.

The garden will also be on display at this year's annual Stanton Drew flower show.

Ros Anstey