A NEW sensory garden that will help enhance the lives of residents at a care home in Worcester has been officially opened by weatherman Paul Damari.

St Stephen's Care Home has spent a £9,000 capital grant from Worcestershire County Council on the garden to fill it with fragrant flowers, herbaceous borders, sweet peas, lavender, and a relaxing water feature.

Sensory gardens are designed to ensure people get a wide range of sensory experiences within a small area and gardens like these are often designed to support the needs of groups with special needs.

Worcester News weatherman and gardening enthusiast Mr Damari cut the ribbon to the garden, which is fully accessible with wheelchair access and handrails, at a special ceremony at the care home in St Stephen's Terrace, off Droitwich Road, on Wednesday.

Manager Dulcie Turner said: "This is a place where the residents can go outside and it will improve their environment."

One resident, Kathleen Charles, 86, said: "It's a lovely idea and everything is in tone.

"The design is very good, and it has been beautifully done. I like the fact we are free to use it as and when we please - there are no restrictions."

Peter Gill, director of care and supported housing at Festival Housing Group, said he was pleased the previously unused grass area had been given a much-needed make-over.

He said: "This sensory garden is proving to be a huge success with our residents.

"During the recent fantastic weather it has been very beneficial for our residents to be outside and experience the sights and smells of spring."