VOLUNTEERS will be get a feel for the great outdoors when they transform a patch of waste land into a sensory garden.

As part of a Groundforce-style makeover, apprentices from the North British Housing Association will get stuck into the task at Darwen Community Centre, in Knott Street, Darwen.

The idea for a sensory garden came from the community development officer Julie Astley who hopes it will tempt deaf and partially sighted people to use the centre.

The project has been made possible by a single regeneration grant of £450 from Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

And it is hoped a Blackburn firm will be donate some essential garden furniture and equipment.

Workers will spend around four days laying wooden decking before adding finishing touches of benches and plants.

Julie said: "We are hoping to put in a selection of plants and shrubs that partially sighted and deaf people can touch and feel.

"We are also hoping a group of young people or schoolchildren will come and help look after its upkeep on a regular basis.

Wendy Hobson from Blackburn Partnership said: "It's going to be a really worthwhile improvement at the end of it all.

"The garden will be something everyone can come along and enjoy."