A SENSORY garden in Blackbird Leys created in honour of community stalwart Val Smith has celebrated a year of providing a haven for the area’s youngsters.

The ‘Circle of Life’ garden was opened at the Dovecote Project last year by then Oxford East MP Andrew Smith.

It is dedicated to the memory of his late wife Val, who spent her life working for the people of the estate and passed away in 2015.

The £8,500 circular garden is divided up into sections, each one offering a different texture underfoot such as pebbles and logs.

There are also three water features, including two taps that give the illusion of floating in mid air.

Family services co-ordinator Carol Richards said: “The kids have absolutely loved it and they’ve gained lots of new skills from helping with planting and maintaining the garden.

“It’s also been a good way for them to learn about Val and everything she did for the area.”

She added they were now fundraising to further develop the garden, which included holding an Easter fun day at the Dovecote Centre on Saturday.