Exmouth and District Children’s Centre has had its garden revamped thanks to Devon County Council staff.

EXMOUTH and District Children’s Centre has had its garden revamped thanks to Devon County Council staff.

Nine young apprentices at the local authority spent a day undertaking the makeover as part of the ‘Cares’ campaign – the Business in the Community’s employee volunteering scheme.

The group managed to transform the area in just one day, firstly clearing it and then creating a low maintenance garden filled with borders, evergreen trees and seating areas.

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for Workforce, said: “I am delighted that this team of staff volunteered to help the children centre in Exmouth to transform their garden.

“They’ve done a fantastic job, and I’m sure their efforts will be greatly appreciated.

“Volunteering is an important way of helping the local community, as well as a great opportunity for personal development and to gain skills that could not be acquired at work.

“I would like to praise the staff involved for their efforts, and encourage others to take part in this valuable scheme.”

Rhonda Jones, the volunteers’ coordinator for Exmouth, Hontion and Wiveliscombe children’s centres, watched the garden being transformed.

She said: “I’m really pleased with the hard work the volunteers have done in transforming the garden. It looks much nicer and will be more welcoming for the families and children that use the centre.

“We are all very grateful for their efforts, and would like to say a massive thank you to the team.”

Brenda Taylor, county Councillor for Exmouth Brixington and Withycombe, provided some of her community budget to help renovate the garden area.

She said: “I have always supported the efforts of those involved with the children’s centre at Moorfield Road, which gives excellent help and advice to many families in the area.

“The garden area is so important to the youngsters, and I am delighted with what the volunteers from the County Council managed to achieve in just one day. Well done!”