MOLLANDS Lane Sensory Garden at Mollands Lane allotment, in South Ockendon, has won The Kings Award for Voluntary Service.

Mollands Lane, which is run by a voluntary group, was designed in collaboration with the National Autistic Society and Scope, and since opening in 2021, has offered a calm space for the local community, schools, those with special needs and their families, carers and friends.

The award citation says the garden: "Provides a place of wellbeing for young people with learning difficulties and local residents

The sensory garden is a green space cultivated with plants, vegetables and chickens.

The award is given to volunteer groups across the UK to recognise exceptional service within their communities and is the second time the project has been honoured.

An awards ceremony will take place in the new year with Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst.

To learn more about KAVS and this year's winners, visit the KAVS website.