A new scheme to assist people aged over 70 with their gardening is being trialled in the north-east, according to reports.

North Tyneside Council has developed the Garden Care Scheme in partnership with Anchor Staying Put, part of Anchor Trust.

Mayor John Harrison has pledged to develop a scheme to help elderly people to take care of their gardens in their own homes, rented housing or council properties.

A pilot scheme has already been rolled out in the Weetslade area because there is a high proportion of residents aged over 70, and it will be introduced to the rest of the borough in 2008 – 2009, the News Guardian reports.

Mr Harrison told the newspaper: "As people grow older it can become more difficult for them to look after their garden, which can obviously be a very frustrating experience.

"One of my pledges was to develop a garden maintenance scheme for all residents over 70 so I'm delighted we're now piloting the initiative. This is great news for older people in our borough."

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