Watford General Hospital has opened a new garden for patients with dementia.

Patients on Bluebell ward, which is dedicated to patients with dementia, can now benefit from the green area been created especially for them in the hospital grounds.

The secure garden area has raised planters, bench seating, flowers and potted plants and is fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Samantha Jones, the Trust's chief executive, said: "I was absolutely delighted to officially open the Bluebell ward garden.

"We hope our patients and their families will enjoy this new outdoor area in the nicer weather.

"On behalf of the Trust, our staff and patients, I’d like to say a huge thank you to Watford Hospital’s League of Friends, Sainsbury’s Homebase and Easigrass for their kind and generous donations towards the garden.

"I’d also like to thank Tonino and Sons for their much welcomed donations of ice cream to our patients, staff and their families."

Chloe Cameron, senior sister on Bluebell ward, said: "Creating dementia-friendly surroundings is so important as they can help patients to be more independent, reduce stress and make their lives more dignified. Gardens can provide peace and quiet which can help to ease anxiety, agitation, aggressive behaviour and pain.

"Patients will be encouraged to care for the plants and look after the garden which may offer reminiscences of activities that people did in their own gardens in the past. It is important to consider the scents and colours of the plants and how stimulating or relaxing they are to our patients."