Pupils at a special needs school in Carmarthenshire are benefiting from a custom-made garden which is stimulating their senses.

The sensory garden at Ysgol Heol Goffa in Llanelli, has been specially designed with plants and grasses chosen for their different textures and aromas.

There are interactive water features

The garden, which has cost �10,000, has been paid for by a donation from Llanelli Round Table and also has interactive water features.

Robin Davies, head teacher at Ysgol Heol Goffa says the garden provides a tranquil area for pupils and staff alike.

He said: "The garden allows children with visual and hearing impairment to explore their environment and develop their senses.

"It is a great new asset and resource for the school which we use on a daily basis.

"Plants such as lavender and mint stimulate touch and smell and wind chimes helps with hearing."

Robin Davies: children can explore their environment

A section of the garden is laid out with different surfaces to help children to recognise various paving on roads and pathways.

Wyn Davies of Llanelli Round Table says the project has been a satisfying one.

"We have a policy of supporting local charities. Money raised from two Llanelli carnivals have contributed to the garden," he said.

Rewarding

"The great thing about this project is that we were able to get involved from start to finish and see an end product which is benefiting local children.

"It gives us a tremendous sense of satisfaction and achievement.

"It is also important for us to be able to show the people of Llanelli that when they throw their money into our collecting buckets they can see where it's going."

The sensory garden is also open to all special needs pupils in the area.