'Neglected' corner of churchyard transformed

The churchyard now features large wooden planters with flowers and benches

A "once neglected" corner of a churchyard described as an "eyesore" has been renovated and transformed by students and volunteers.

The area of St Giles churchyard in Northampton town centre was now a "beautiful and useful space", said Kardi Somerfield from the church's community group.

The site had been known to collect litter and attract antisocial behaviour.

Two benches, five hanging basket posts and a bin were donated from the recent Abington Street improvement works, and were refurbished by students at Northampton College.

St Giles Community Group led the project with support from Northampton Business Improvement District (BID).

Dr Somerfield said: "What was once an eyesore is now a beautiful and useful space that's already being enjoyed by local residents and visitors."

She said volunteers would continue to look after it and it was now "an area we can all be proud of".

Many helpers came forward to transform the churchyard

Mark Mullen, from Northampton BID, said: "This project has been carried out with a real eye on sustainability, by upcycling street furniture from Abington Street and creating attractive new planters that will bring an immediate pop of colour to the garden, while encouraging pollinators to return year on year."

Mark Bradshaw, curriculum manager for construction at Northampton College, added: "Having the opportunity to create an attractive, safe and welcoming green space in the heart of the town centre is something we were more than happy to support.

"It was a brilliant experience for our students, giving them the chance to do real work in the community that they will be able to look back on with a sense of satisfaction for years to come."