TV GARDENER Jeff Turner put his seal of approval on the first class green fingered efforts of Royal Mail workers to help hospital patients.

A 'green haven' for patients at the Alexander Unit at Trafford General Hospital has been created by staff from the Urmston sorting office, along with staff and patients from the unit.

And Jeff called in to open the 'sensory garden' - which was devised by staff at the unit for elderly people with mental health problems, such as dementia.

The project - which has taken over a year to complete - received financial backing from the hospital's League of Friends, Trafford Healthcare NHS Trust's staff lottery, and the Royal Mail staff.

Anne Marie Burn, nursing auxiliary, says: "We wanted to help our patients by creating a garden which would develop and stimulate their senses. We hope the garden will be enjoyed by our patients and increase their self awareness, encourage mobility and increase communication."

The sensory garden has been designed to include features to stimulate all the senses. It has a wide variety of plants and trees, mosaics, a water feature, raised flower beds and seating areas.

Clinical manager Don Chapman adds: "On behalf of our patients, the staff would like to thank all those who have helped us complete this wonderful project, especially the staff at the Royal Mail sorting office in Urmston."

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