A TEAM of green-fingered volunteers have transformed an area of wilderness into a landscape garden at Westbury Junior School.

Around 15 parents, governors and staff rolled up their sleeves for the task on Saturday, under the watchful eye of Andrew Stone from Barters Farm Nurseries in Chapmanslade.

The Ground Force- style project was devised to revive a disused plot of land in front of the school's new extension. Once the school association raised the necessary funds, it was full steam ahead for headteacher Richard Hatt and his team.

The new garden now features a hedge, trees, paths and 50-60 plants and will provide an extra classroom spot on hot summer days.

Chairman of the school's governors Charlie Finbow, who was among the amateur gardeners, said: "We provided our labour free of charge and had a back-breaking day.

"We didn't really have a lot of expertise, but Andrew arranged us and it came together.

"It's not only going to be attractive, it will also be used as a teaching area in the summer as it is protected from the sun."

Mr Stone said: "I'd give the team 10 out of 10. Mr Hatt said we would only get about half a dozen people, but a lot more turned up.

"I know most of them couldn't move the following day. I usually prefer to grow the plants rather than do the digging.

"All we need now is a nice lot of rain to help the grass grow."