Volunteers from the Prince's Trust spent two weeks transforming a walled-off area by the North East Disability Resource Centre, in Hendon, Sunderland.

Their efforts were unveiled to centre members and guests of honour, former Sunderland legend, Len Ashurst, and Sunderland's Mayor Mary Graham.

A team of 15 young people aged 16 to 25, led by Steven Moffit, gave up two weeks of their time to turn the garden into a tranquil chill-out area.

And local business rallied round, donating more than £5,000 of equipment, including tools, plant and sensory activities for members to enjoy.

Young volunteers Chris Johnson, James Cossey and Michael Johnson, all from Washington said they had all enjoyed working on the garden, along with Rachael Robinson, Glen Foi, Nathan Pattie from Newcastle and North Tyneside.

They said: "We have all done our bit and put in 100 per cent, and it's paid off in the end. Everyone has learnt new skills."

Former Sunderland manager Len Ashurst was impressed by their efforts. He said: "The youth of today are often maligned, but when you see something like today, you realise the majority of young people are kind and want to do good.

"It opens your eyes and makes you appreciate what you have yourself. It is a terrific facility here and I understand there has been huge support from local firms, and they are to be thanked.

"I hope they can come here some time and see what they have produced."
The centre has been a target for thieves, who have stolen thousands of pounds-worth of gardening equipment, tools, a barbecue and even pet rabbits.

In the latest attack, a would-be burglar fell through the centre's conservatory roof, before fleeing empty-handed. Drugs paraphernalia has also been found nearby.

Diane Malaugh, from Washington, whose twin brother Trevor Malaugh is a centre regular, is taking part in The Prince's Trust Development Program.

She was horrified to see the state of the centre's gardens and vowed to make them more secure. Diane, 25, was delighted with the result.

"It's nice to see the garden being used today by the centre members. It just shows not all young people are bad. There is loads of bad publicity about young people, but everyone here has worked really hard.

"A big thank-you to all the companies that have donated."