A hospital has launched an appeal to improve patients’ recovery with a new garden.

Chase Farm Hospital charity, on The Ridgeway, is hoping to raise £120,000 to transform two disused spaces and create ‘therapeutic’ gardens.

Launching their campaign at the Highlands Wing of the hospital, the gardens will be there to support dementia patients and those recovering from strokes.

Tracy Goodman, Matron for Rehabilitation, said: "Recovering from a brain injury can take many weeks of prolonged hospital stay.

“Being able to get off of the ward into a garden that has been designed to meet their needs and maintain safety will provide a space for them to continue their therapy in the fresh air.

“They will also have a safe haven to have time to think."

The Charity aim to complete the gardens by summer 2016 and every donation counts towards the £120,000 needed for the project.

There are enough funds to start phase one of the project - to raise the level of the gardens in line with the level of the wards.

Joyce, a patient on Adelaide Ward, which helps dementia patients, said: "In the morning patients here don’t know what to do with themselves.

“I feel isolated. If I can go outside and watch things grow I have something to look forward to and a reason to get up. It would be nice to chat to others if they are also outside.”

These specialist gardens is hoping to help patients by developing muscle strength and balance, boosting self-esteem and helping to decrease anxiety, amongst other benefits.

To donate, go to royalfreecharity.org/donate/fund.