THE spades and shovels were out in force as members of the local community joined for a bulb planting session at Turton Tower.

Volunteers concentrated their efforts on the round bed at the bottom of the main lawn.

Around 70 people turned up for the event, which was organised and led by the Friends of Turton Tower group.

Chairman, Beryl Woffenden, said: "It was an extremely successful event and it was lovely to see so many people offer to help.

"In a month or so, when these flowers and plants have started to grow, the garden will be blooming - it will look splendid."

More than 100 specimens - each donated by members of the Friends Society or by members of the public -were planted throughout the day.

The event was the idea of committee member, Ian Trickett.

Friends of Turton Tower raise funds to contribute to the running of the Tower by collecting membership fees and organising fundraising events.