A GROUP of girls has been lending a hand in their town as part of a blooming good effort this summer.

Brownies from the Helmsley pack have their own garden to look after, and as judging looms for Helmsley In Bloom, they have been putting their green-fingered skills to the test.

Leader Joyce Westhead said: "We do it on a Monday evening when it's the Brownie night, and I take three or four girls to work on it.

"There's a little seat and a paved area which has now been made wheelchair friendly.

"There are lavenders and pinks as well as bedding plants because we wanted to have the fragrance for everyone to enjoy the garden."

The girls have been sprucing up their garden as Helmsley prepares itself for the next stage of judging.

Town councillor Jane Barker said: "We are currently fourth in the large village competition, which we are really thrilled about.

"We are hoping to do well."

Updated: 10:14 Tuesday, June 17, 2003