MORE than 80 people turned out for eight hours to help a fireman suffering from Motor Neuron Disease transform his garden.

Darren Black, 50, of Sceptre Close, Tollesbury, was diagnosed with the disease in January 2015.

The muscle wasting disease forced him out of his job as a firefighter, where he served for twenty years, and into a wheelchair, meaning he no longer has easy access to his garden.

Residents in Tollesbury, where Darren is described as the “lifeblood of the community”, came together on Sunday to renovate Darren’s garden.

More than 80 people worked from 8.30am to 5.30pm, to install ramps, flower beds and paint fences.

Darren, who lives with his wife and two children, said: “I can now really enjoy the garden with friends and family. It is absolutely amazing and we can’t wait to get out and use it.

“I can’t walk anymore, I still get out when I can but am in a wheelchair, so having the outside space is absolutely massive. I love the sounds, sitting outside and listening to the birds.”

The DIY SOS-esque makeover was the idea of fellow Tollesbury resident Sara Carter, who said: “We all shared the most incredible day with Darren and his family.

“From 8.30am to the early evening people just kept turning up, getting their hands dirty and helping in whatever way they could.

“I would like to thank our sponsors Bonz, Tiptree Building Supplies, MDM Timber, Perrywoods, The British Legion, Staines & Brights and Tesco Maldon for their incredible generosity. As well as our incredible community who came and gave their time for a most wonderful family.

“We are continuing our fundraising efforts to buy Darren some essential adapted equipment and if anyone can help please email sc@saracarterbusiness.co.uk”