Memorial garden transformed for community

Neil Binder, pictured with mayor Linda Leach, said he wanted to turn the garden into a tranquil place where people could reflect

A Falklands War veteran has led a project to transform a memorial garden partly to help him with his own post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Neil Binder and his wife Wendy have spent the past two years digging, planting and rallying people to help at the war memorial garden in Bilston, Wolverhampton.

The ex-serviceman said he wanted to turn the area into a tranquil space where people could "come, sit, ponder and reflect".

Mr Binder said he found the gardening work calming and helped him to deal with the traumatic memories of his military experience.

He said: "For the last two years, we've dug, planted, begged, borrowed and put money in from our own pockets to get plants in here to make it a nice, presentable place."

Since the project started, thousands of bulbs, wildflower and poppy seeds have been planted in the four raised beds at the site.

'Plenty of colour'

Members of Wolverhampton Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club have helped with the project and Mr Binder said he was keen for other community groups to help out.

"This is a safe space for anyone who would like to use it - where they can relax, reflect and take in the surroundings," he said.

"If everything blooms as we hope, there will be plenty of interest and plenty of colour."

The project has been financed mainly by Mr Binder and his wife, with support from City of Wolverhampton Council.

Councillor Linda Leach, mayor of Wolverhampton, said: "I am delighted that the council has been able to support this project, because the site has military heritage and it is important to honour and remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice."