A SHELTERED work project which grew from a one-man-band to a hugely successful business is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

The Cherry Tree Nursery in Northbourne now has 174 volunteers and attracts hundreds of customers every week.

The independent charity offers work to volunteers, all of whom are referred due to mental illness.

Recent years have seen three new buildings erected on the site and the last one will be officially opened at an anniversary event on July 2.

Nursery manager Jess Davies said the nursery now has a waiting list and stressed the importance of such work projects for people with mental illness.

"Mental health services are being slashed and it is having a bad effect on people," she said.

"People need to know they are part of something they believe in because many are isolated and lonely. They make friends here and really care for each other.

"To our volunteers, the project is a lifeline, providing family, community, purpose and hope."

The nursery's 25th anniversary plant sale will be held from 8am until 3pm on Saturday July 4 and Jess is hoping to attract as many people as possible.

She also hopes to raise the profile of the nursery and attract more customers throughout the year.

"We have been very well supported by local people but there are still a lot of people who don't know we are here," she said.

"We need as many customers as possible to enable us to continue what we do. Our plants are good value and of a very high quality."

Over the last 25 years the nursery has helped more than 700 people and an anniversary appeal has been launched to raise more money.

It is hoped that members of the public will make regular donations, perhaps as little as £2 per month.

Anyone who wishes to help should call 01202 593537 or email contactus@cherrytreenursery.org.uk