EVERYTHING is coming up roses for residents at a Harwood old people's home after volunteers got stuck into their garden.

In their own version of the TV makeover programme, Ground Force, the youngsters from the Bolton based Prince's Trust Volunteer Scheme have renovated the garden area at Manor Court in Harwood.

The 15 volunteers are all taking part in a 12 week scheme, run in conjunction with the fire service, to give unemployed people the social skills and confidence they need to find work.

The group have toiled to dig over flower beds, hang up baskets, jazz up benches and mend fences at the Hough Fold Way home.

Cash to complete the project was raised by the volunteers themselves by packing bags at a supermarket and they boosted their £400 total by persuading local garden centres to donate shrubs.

"They have worked really hard and battled with the weather," said course leader Gary Costin.

The completed garden was officially opened by the mayor, Cllr John Walsh and residents are looking forward to the summer months when their new oasis will be a pleasant, flower-filled place to sit.

"The residents will benefit tremendously," said Manor Court's care supervisor Christine Bromilow.

"The garden was a bit run down and needed a bit of care and attention. This will make a big difference to the residents."

The group are half way through their 12 week course and there plenty more challenges ahead, including getting community sports leaders' awards and first aid certificates.

They are also planning to raise more cash to help pay for a weekend trip for people with special needs.