A community company in Burntwood has been presented with a national award by the Prime Minister.
David Cameron handed over the Big Society Award to Cherry Orchard Gardening Service in recognition of its efforts to train and employ local people with learning disabilities to become gardeners.
Once trained, participants are able to earn a wage by maintaining the gardens of elderly residents living in Lichfield and Burntwood.
Mr Cameron said: “I would like to congratulate all those involved with the Cherry Orchard Gardening Service who have made such a difference to their local area.
“Their work has enabled both disabled people to find work and also elderly residents to feel more secure in their neighbourhood.
“This is an innovative way for one part of the local community to help another.”
The Cherry Orchard Gardening Service works in partnership with the charity Burntwood Live at Home, which helps these older people stay active and healthy in their own homes rather than go into care.
Six members of the group were also invited to Lichfield District Council by Cllr Ken Humphries for a special reception and to receive a garden thermometer as a gift.
“We’re really proud to have been involved with Cherry Orchard Gardening Service over the years and wanted to add our congratulations to the team in person,” said Cllr Humphries.
“They offer a great service, not just for their members, but to all the people whose gardens they take such good care of and they deserve to be recognised in this way. Keep up the good work!”
