Thanks to the hard work of four paramedic friends, a once-abandoned nature reserve in Cornwall has been reopened.

Lanjeth Nursery and Water Gardens near St Austell was bought in 2022 by the quartet, who wanted to do something together after “working together so well” during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Norman Trebilcock, a member of the group, said the area was “completely overgrown” on the first day.

He added that the site is still a work in progress but is now open to the public for free.

Speaking to BBC Cornwall about the first day, he said: “When we came here, we walked through the gate and everything was completely overgrown.

“The paths were small, you couldn’t see through the greenhouses, let alone walk through them – you couldn’t see from one end to the other.”

“The nature is quiet and peaceful. There are deer here, there are Canada geese here, whatever you want, you will find it all here.

“We even have a resident woodpecker that has taken over the telegraph pole at the main gate.

“I’m so happy with it and people just love it. When they come in, it’s nature at its best.”

He said he decided to spend his retirement working on the construction site because “I get out and enjoy my day – rain or shine.”

“And what should I do when I retire? Sit at home in an armchair? No, no, no.

“So if there’s anyone out there who’s retired and wants to pitch in and get some fresh air, please get in touch.”

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