A DORCHESTER community centre was revamped thanks to the work of green-fingered teenagers with The Prince’s Trust.

Thirteen young people chose to refurbish the gardens at Greenwood Independent Living Centre for the Trust’s 12-week personal development course aimed at 16-25 year olds not in employment, education or training who may be facing challenging circumstances.

The group transformed the garden at the Dorset County Council-run facility to make it more accessible and created a professional contract and project plan as part of the project.

They even raised money for materials, collecting £1,000 through a bag-pack at Asda, a sponsored abseil, and cake sales and received discounts on materials from B&Q Weymouth and Jewsons Dorchester, along with generous donations from Synergy Housing, Dorchester Timber and Travis Perkins Weymouth.

Over two weeks the group landscaped the garden, rebuilt a shed, built steps to the pond, constructed a patio area and painted benches, sheds and fences.

Prince’s Trust team member Ashleigh Skye said, “It was very challenging but we got there in the end. It was lovely to work alongside the service users.”

A handover ceremony held to celebrate completion of the project was attended by Dorchester mayor Peter Mann, Dorset Social Services, Synergy Housing, centre staff and users and Prince’s Trust team members.

Alison Walker, manager at the Greenwood Centre, said: “They have been very creative and have shown great consideration for the people who will enjoy the garden in the future.”

Andy Dukes, The Prince’s Trust course team leader, said: “I am really proud of the team. The Prince’s Trust programme really helps them to turn their lives around.”

n For more information on the Prince’s Trust programme call 01305 753035.