A GREENOCK care home is transforming an outdoor space into a playground after its residents became firm friends with visiting nursery children.

Over the last three years children from Madeira Nursery have been visiting residents at Glenfield Care Home.

The children and residents have built up such a bond that they all look forward to their visits together.

In a bid to get the residents out and about in the garden staff are creating a playground so if the children go outside during their visits then the residents can join them.

A section of the garden is being transformed with the revamp due to be completed on Tuesday in time for the children’s next visit.

Activity co-ordinator Diana Knox said: “The residents have a great relationship with the children and some even have their favourites.

“The children visit at Christmas time, dress up at Halloween and Easter and their visits cheer the residents up.

“They sing songs, do crafts, draw, colour and tell stories.

“We want to encourage the residents to go outside, enjoy the garden, the fresh air and the sunshine and also have somewhere for the children to enjoy when they come.”

Work is now under way to transform the space in time.

Although staff have most of the things they need they are also hoping to include a swing and a slide and are appealing for anyone parting with one to donate.

Diana said: “We are working to cut back some trees and tidy up a little.

"We have a sand pit, see saw, mini trampoline and ride on toys for the children already.

“We also plan to give each of the children from the nursery their own little box where they can plant some flowers themselves.

“The residents are really looking forward to seeing it complete, some have even helped by giving their views on which toys should go where.

“We are excited about having the space complete and seeing what the residents and children think.”

Anyone who thinks they can assist with donations of toys is asked to call the home on 729424.