A lot of planning, a lot of work and a lot of fundraising - but in the end, residents and staff of COPE, Mitchelstown have their sensory garden.

With its paved walkways, newly laid lawns, flower beds, mature trees, railings and water features it looks superb and the public, who helped make it a reality, got a chance to see the finished product for themselves at last Sunday's official opening.

The tape was cut by COPE CEO, Colette Kelleher with Canon Tim O'Leary and Revd Eileen Cremin providing a blessing. Long serving COPE volunteer Mary Barrett, went through in some detail the genesis of the idea, the logistics involved, the fundraising and the many hands required to make the plan a reality.

Mary, who has overseen the project from day one, gave a forensic breakdown of what was required from ground works, the sourcing of stone, electrics, plumbing, erection of fencing, selection of plants, sourcing of a gazebo and the installation of seating and landscaping. Everyone was credited and each individual and company formally acknowledged. Fundraising was extensive and characterised at all stages by the public support for the garden.

Ms Kelleher described the garden as 'a beautiful space'.

"Getting the project to this stage is a victory for co-operation and team work. Mitchelstown and the surrounding areas can be very proud of what's been achieved, it's a beautiful space that enhances an already wonderful facility," she said.

Community activist and youth leader, Liz Downes, said Mary Barrett had been a tower of strength during the last number of years and deserved great praise for the time and effort she committed to the sensory garden. The contribution of the late Con Murphy was also publicly recognised.

Following formalities, refreshments were served - musical accompaniment for the occasion was provided by Frank Carroll.

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