Garden and greenhouse fans to see parks renovated

A total of £18 million in grants has been allocated for the renovation of six park and garden attractions.

The cash, from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund, will be used to upgrade and restore sites in Bolton, Tameside, Southampton, Letchworth Garden City and Leicester, as well as Stewart Park in Middlesbrough.

The latter will receive £4.3 million, which will be used to restore and clean its lakes, create a new visitor centre and refurbish a number of historic buildings.

First opened in 1928, the 47-hectare park and gardens is best-known as the birthplace of the famous explorer Captain Cook.

Local councillor Paul Thompson explained that the cash will help preserve the attraction for future generations to enjoy.

In other news, the Royal Horticultural Society recently revealed that a study is to take place into the changing habits of bumblebees after it emerged that they are becoming increasingly active in the winter months.