A THURROCK community is being asked to throw its weight behind plans to build a sensory garden as a place of respite for vulnerable people.

The idea has been put forward by Nikki Owen who runs a community volunteer group in Stifford Clays.

She says: "I am trying to give back to the vulnerable within Stifford Clays by creating a happy sensory garden. It is primarily for the residents of nearby St Cedds Court, Wellington Court and Chafford Way sheltered housing complexes but it will be available to all.

"I am working alongside the most amazing housing manager who runs supported housing locally and she has given us so much support.

"Our mission to re-design and create a happy healthy environment for supported residents and the wider community.

"I believe we should give back to those who have given so much over the years to us I will be running the group every Monday from 11 am until 2 pm which I'm hoping I can get some volunteers who are willing to volunteer their time and energy pruning weeding and planting.

"There will always be a nice cup of tea or coffee and a chat as we do so. All welcome"

"And please, if you have any spare tools, planters, garden arches or even wood, nails, hammers that are in good shape even top soil that you would've otherwise thrown away please could you donate them to Stifford Clays Headon Hall Garden project.

"I am really desperate for helpers in order to pull up stumps as well as digging turning the ground over even making planters, weeding, pruning, planting and general garden stuff."

Anyone who would like to help can contact Nikki by email at [email protected] or pop along to Headon Hall on a Monday.