RESIDENTS of one of Felixstowe's care homes are to benefit from a new sensory garden after their green-fingered chef swapped his spoons for a set of spades.

RESIDENTS of one of Felixstowe's care homes are to benefit from a new sensory garden after their green-fingered chef swapped his spoons for a set of spades.

Staff at the Mill Lane Nursing and Retirement Home are in the process of creating the garden for residents and their families led by chef Ben Garnham - and residents are being encouraged to lend a hand, too.

It will contain colourful and strongly-scented flowers and plants and two new fish ponds.

The home, based in Garrison Lane, is also planning to expand the existing garden facilities by creating a special remembrance area, which will commemorate past occupants and offer a quiet relaxation area for residents and their visitors.

Mr Garnham said: “Although usually I am creating culinary dishes for our residents, I really wanted to help create this special place.

“The sensory garden will provide a stimulating environment for everyone at the home.

“By involving our residents, we are aiming to give them a sense of ownership. Many have a keen interest in gardening - it is a real team effort.”

The home in Mill Lane is run by leading East of England care home company Healthcare Homes and provides 25 nursing beds for the elderly.

Home manager Jocelyn Day said: “Many people miss the privacy of their own gardens after moving into care and this is a way all our residents can get involved and enjoy the open space that the property offers.

“The project will give the residents the opportunity to get involved with watering of the garden, feeding the gold fish, replenishing the bird feeder or just sitting and relaxing.”