A LONG abandoned and overgrown patch of grass has been transformed to help bereaved families get through the most difficult moments they may face.

A green area opposite the mortuary at the Royal Bolton Hospital had spent years unused, becoming wild and overgrown.

Local charities banded together with staff to give the spot a much needed makeover and finally put it to good use.

After landscaping efforts, the space has been completely transformed into a peaceful garden for grieving families.

Mortuary manager, Lynda Shawcross said: “We hope this will be a place where bereaved relatives can have a few minutes to compose themselves after viewing their loved one. We’re really grateful to our colleagues for their contributions and for helping make this a reality.”

Local charities Rotary Bolton with Le Moors and Emmaus, have funded and designed the garden, which contains decorative bedding boxes, a covered area with a bench, relaxing music and a memory wall, where ribbons can be tied in remembrance of loved ones.

Staff also contributed to the improvements.

This week, representatives from Bolton Rotary Club and Emmaus joined Trust staff to watch the Mayor of Bolton officially open the area.

Tony Stephenson, executive leader at Emmaus said: “It’s been a great pleasure to work with the Rotary Club to produce the bereavement garden. We understand how important it is to have an attractive and quiet place for reflection when you are dealing with one of life’s most difficult moments.

"We hope it will be used and bring comfort.”

Mark Relph, president of The Rotary Club of Bolton with Le Moors, said his organisation was happy to be able to work with hospital staff to organise such a worthwhile project.

He said: “As a former funeral director myself, I know how important it is to have such a place as this garden when helping people say goodbye to their loved ones.

"It is wonderful to see this beautiful space, provided for the bereaved, opened”

The garden is only for use by those attending the mortuary, to preserve the dignity and privacy of the recently bereaved. The garden by the hospital chapel is available to all visitors.