FIREFIGHTERS from Basildon fire station’s Green Watch have shown that they have green fingers.

They have transformed an overgrown area into a beautiful and peaceful garden for Basildon-based drug and alcohol charity Open Road, in Southview Road.

The crew rolled their sleeves up and over the course of two days cleared the garden, removed weeds, built decking and raised flowerbeds and spread woodchips to ensure the garden wouldn’t get overgrown again.

The scheme is part of the service’s commitment to the Delivering Differently in Neighbourhoods scheme which will see the service working closely with partners and other local organisations to play a more active role in the county’s communities.

Station officer Tony Howard explained: “Open road approached us and asked if we could help them with the garden at their centre in Vange.

“The crews have done a fantastic job.

"In two days they have completely transformed the area creating a stunning and relaxing garden for the centre’s users to enjoy.”

Nearby Altons Garden Centre provided specialist know how to the project free of charge designing the garden and helping choose the right plants to go in there.