PEOPLE in Sauchie can take in all the colours, smells and textures at a community garden, following its official opening last week.

Sauchie Community Garden, developed by the gardening group based at the Resource Centre, opened the gates to the public who can head along to enjoy the space.

There are sensory flower beds, pots and various features, including numerous photos of the town over the years.

Children from the Gartmorn class at Lochies School were at the official opening to unveil a train planter, which they named Flower of Sauchie in a competition.

They also sang a song of the same name in Makaton; other first-class entertainers included Sheila McRobert, Donald Cowan and Michael Roach.

MP Luke Graham was invited to officially open the garden and the crowd was also joined by other special guests including local Councillor Derek Stewart, who unveiled a bench recognising his time representing the town as provost of the local authority.

Current Provost Tina Murphy, Deputy Lord Lieutenant John McPherson as well as Cllrs Jane McTaggart and Mike Watson were also present for the occasion.

Mr Graham, who had highlighted to garden volunteers a £19,000 funding opportunity from the People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “It has been an honour to open the Sauchie Community Garden.

“Keith and the team have transformed the area and I am delighted that my team and I have been able to help.

“This is one of the best parts of the job as MP – to be able to support our local community and see the projects from start to finish.

“You can really feel how this has contributed to the many success stories throughout Sauchie.

“I know that this garden will provide a great space for locals and visitors alike, who can enjoy it all year round.”

Thanks were given to all the volunteers who worked hard to turn the garden into reality, the Postcode Lottery for generous funding and for a presentation on the day, McDonald’s and Morrisons from Alloa for donations toward catering and David Hislop for photography.

Also, to Clackmannanshire Council’s Land Services who did some heavy work including the removal of trees and installation of raised planters, Carruthers Welding Services for the fences and to the Robertson Trust who funded the container for storage and meeting space.

Anyone looking to help out can join Sauchie Community Gardening Group who meet every second Friday at the Resource Centre at 1pm and every third Thursday at 7pm.

For more information find Sauchie Community Group on Facebook or call 01259 574 854.