A memorial garden on the site of a housing complex for veterans has been given a makeover.

The garden at Bournemouth War Memorial Homes has been completely transformed to offer better access to all residents and visitors.

The walkway has been repaved with sandstone slabs and a wrought iron gate added to the garden entrance.

Managers from the Bournemouth War Memorial Homes charity approached Broxap for advice about how to ensure the garden remained welcoming with additional seating.

The Broxap team recommended the installation of individual benches with armrests situated around the memorial stone, which will be the venue for Remembrance Day services in the future.

Thanks to a grant from the BFBS Big Salute, a total of 10 Willenhall Steel Seats were manufactured and delivered to the garden. Built using FSC certified timber, the steel frame was painted dark green to complement the natural surroundings.

The project has given residents a peaceful spot to take time out and a communal space where they can come together to chat and relax.

The complex provides high quality one, two and three bedroom homes to ex service personnel in need and their families.

The homes are funded entirely by donations and discounted rental income.

Tracy Poole, estate manager, said: “Our properties are home to everyone from little babies right up to people in their 90s.

“We wanted somewhere for children on the estate to enjoy but also somewhere that was mobility friendly and restful for older residents.

“This was a really big project for us funded through the sponsorship of memorial trees and grants and included a planting scheme as well as the paving and seating.

“It looks really good and we are so grateful for the help and advice we received over the seating.”

Bournemouth War Memorial Homes was established towards the end of the Second World War when Bournemouth Council initiated a scheme for disabled ex service people and their dependants.

This was instead of the usual erection of a memorial with the names of those who had sacrificed their lives for freedom.

In a forward-thinking move, efforts were instead focused on helping those who did return home to pick up the threads of their lives in comfort and security.

The first homes were completed and occupied in 1948.

Today a total of 55 properties sit on the site, with three more close by. Work is currently taking place to improve communal facilities with another two flats to be created in the next phase of construction.