COMMUNITY spirit has been set in full flow in the Stoops area of Burnley following the opening of a communal garden.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Burnley, Coun Andy Tatchell and his wife Lorna, cut the ribbon at the official opening of the Rome Avenue community garden.

Once an empty wasteland regularly used by flytippers, the area has now been completely seeded with grass and wildflowers.

Fruit-bearing hedges and trees have also been planted in the garden for the project.

It has been completed by Calico in partnership with Lancashire County Council and Newground CIC and supported with external funding from Lancashire Environment Fund and local councillors.

Alicia Foley, Calico’s community involvement advisor, said: “The community garden will be a fantastic resource for the area.

It’s great to see what was once derelict land become a vibrant community space for all residents to enjoy.”