A NEW dementia friendly garden has been unveiled in a York park, to help everyone in the community enjoy the outdoor space.

The Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust (JRHT) officially opened the Circle Garden late last month, with a spherical central water feature, a stone wall perimeter with hedging and poetry windows, a circular tree seat and aromatic flowers - all chosen to provide an inclusive, open and safe space.

The garden, which is at the Water End side of Homestead Park, was inspired by Joseph Rowntree Foundation research into the UK’s ageing society, and how dementia-friendly communities could be established.

Campbell Robb, JRHT’s Chief Executive, said: “It is wonderful to see the park as a hive of activity, with people of all ages making the most of its facilities. The quality of the new Circle Garden is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our team at JRHT who work all year round to provide a beautiful, award-winning space that everyone in the local community can enjoy.

"The mission of Homestead Park is to provide a community park for all in the heart of York. I would strongly encourage anyone who has not visited the park to do so, as it is truly one of York’s brightest gems all year round."