AN OUTDOOR space in Thamesmead has been given winter makeover by residents who braved the cold to plant trees.

A group of 75 people planted eight fruit trees and learnt how to plant and care for trees at Birchmere Community Garden in Birchmere Park last month.

The session was provided by charity Groundwork London, in partnership with Trust Thamesmead, Moorings Action Together and London Wildlife Trust as part of the three-year, European-funded Cultivating Communities programme in Thamesmead.

Over the winter, raised beds for food growing, a polytunnel, willow dome, composting area and a herb bed will be installed.

Community gardener, Jack Astbury, is holding sessions from 10am to 1pm every Thursday for anyone who wants help.

Community manager of Groundwork London, Sarah Smith said: “The community garden is starting to take shape thanks to the hard work of the community volunteers and those who attended the workshop.

"On completion, the community garden will provide a fantastic resource for the whole community to get involved in food growing activities and other events.”