Green Aiders digging deep to help elderly

They provide a one-off service, run by community charity Groundwork Luton and Bedfordshire.

All five members of the team are young adults with learning disabilities looking to move into the horticultural industry.

Throughout February and March they mowed lawns, weeded, pruned and cleared brambles to tidy up various gardens, as well as digging flower beds and planting bulbs.

Community project officer Christian Aszchak, who supervised visits to 16 homes, said: “Being involved with Green Aiders is always hugely rewarding because of the relief it gives to vulnerable residents.

“But this time round I got a lot of satisfaction seeing the volunteers discover new skills and putting existing ones into practice.

“They have wonderful support from staff at Central Bedfordshire’s Council’s Adult Learning Disability Services, who are trying to find them jobs in this field. Their work on Green Aiders proves why they thoroughly deserve to get it.”

Councillor Carole Hegley said: “Residents who are not able to manage their gardens, through no fault of their own, can now enjoy the health benefits of being able to get out of doors, thanks to the hard work of these young gardeners.”

> To book a visit call Christian on 01582 720147.