A COURTYARD garden being built for use by children and young people with disabilities and funded by The Shuttle is nearing completion.

Kidz First, based at the Longbank Centre, Bewdley, was able to create the facility which will host gardening and other educational activities after receiving £8,720 from the Gannett Foundation last December.

Setbacks during the year, including snow and floods, meant it was not ready to open in spring as originally planned but is now due to be finished within six weeks, according to organisers.

The area features a storytelling corner, winding pathways, hop scotch, seating, water features, statues, palm trees and doorways to a secret garden and mini-orchard.

Sharon Weston, Kidz First chef executive, said: “The biggest bonus will be the sense of worth and usefulness felt by service users involved and the years of fun, creativity and places for contemplation they will have.”

She said the garden centre’s previous layout did little to promote or link with Kidz First’s aims as a charity to support children and young people with disabilities.

“Nor did it make obvious that it is a charity garden centre with plants grown and nurtured by our students with all proceeds going to Kidz First,” she added.

“For the service users, being involved in the courtyard project has given them the opportunity to take ownership of their surroundings and put their ideas and mark on what as an end product will add intrigue, enhancement and magic to the garden.

“On behalf of the children and young people of Kidz First we thank the Gannett Foundation and The Shuttle for their kind support.”

For more information on Kidz First, call 01299 400655.