The Ground Force garden make-over show has transformed a public space in New York as a memorial to mark the tragedy of 11 September.

Presenter and gardener Alan Titchmarsh and his team travelled to the US to film the make-over of a plot of disused land into what they hope will become a neighbourhood oasis in Manhattan.

The land is just one mile away from Ground Zero, the site where the twin towers of the World Trade Center stood before last year's terrorist attack.

The team, including Charlie Dimmock and Tommy Walsh, surprised actress and singer Bette Midler with the transformation as a reward for the work she has done her New York Restoration Project.

Charlie Dimmock wanted to create a haven in the bustling city

The charity, which was founded by Midler in 1995, restores, develops, and revitalises parks, community gardens and open space in New York City.

The BBC show has a large following in the US where it is shown nightly on cable channel BBC America.

"What Ground Force has achieved in just three days is truly amazing," said Midler.

"They have captured the spirit of New York and the New York Restoration Project and given a true legacy to a community that can be enjoyed for many years to come."

"We've been delighted to work with such a team of experts and to have seen a wasteland turned into a beautiful garden that everyone can enjoy is a true gift to the people of New York," she added.

The New York special will air in the US on 20 August on BBC America and will be screened in the UK on BBC One on 25 August.