WORK is under way to create a community garden in Whitby Park as part of a £1m revamp of the historic hall and grounds.

And residents are more than welcome to contribute ideas, help and suggestions.

The garden will be developed on the site of the original walled garden next to the stable block.

Green-fingered residents of all ages are currently transforming the area to suit their own tastes and needs.

The park¹s dedicated gardener, Fraser Purslow, is working closely with volunteers and members of the public who are leading the project.

Fraser, who is the first full-time gardener to be based in Whitby Park for 10 years, said: "The work that¹s going on is all thanks to an award by Age Concern, funded by the Millennium Commission with proceeds from the National Lottery.

"The area which will become a community garden has already been marked into different sections and work has started on cultivating two areas.

"Anyone who wants to lend a hand would be most welcome, or if people have got suggestions about how to make the most of this area, please come and see us."

Flowers and vegetables will soon be planted in the garden, which will become an area for everyone to enjoy, either to sit and relax or work in.

The idea is to get people of all ages and abilities to work together and at the moment community groups such as Spider, Forest Lights, Roots'n'Boots and Friends of Whitby Park are playing an instrumental role.

Steve Yandell, a volunteer with Spider, said: "The garden will continue to evolve and give pleasure to all those working in it and visiting.

"The more people that get involved, the better the garden will be."

If you want to offer help, ideas or support, telephone the borough council on 0151 356 6769 or the Spider Project on 0151 357 1822.