A GARDENER has stepped in to repair a damaged memorial bush and end a widow's weeks of heartbreak.

Wendy Wilkinson, 47, of Barons Close, Lower Darwen, has been waiting since June 16 for waste contractors "RU Recycling?" to repair the memorial bush one of their drivers knocked down.

Wendy and her children were worried that the treasured bush, which was planted as her husband Russell lay dying, would not survive if left damaged.

James Barry Grimshaw, 60, of Clayton-le-Moors, who operates under the name Barry the Gardener, has come to the rescue.

Barry said: "Her story just really struck a chord with me and I could understand that she felt upset and messed around.

"I am just glad I could put it right for her and the kids."

Wendy today said she was thrilled with the job he had done and was comforted to know that there are still some thoughtful people out there.

She said: "He has done a fantastic job.

"All the dead wood has been cut off and the branches which were damaged have been cut back and cleared. Barry says it should come back to its former glory next year, which is such a relief.

"He has even trimmed it so it looks even nicer."